A delicate trailing succulent strung with rows of round pea-like green beads, each with a translucent window, spilling in long curtains and producing small fragrant white brush flowers. A favourite hanging plant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 10 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About String of Pearls
Curio rowleyanus is a moderate-growing succulent in the Asteraceae family. It reaches around 10 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow String of Pearls
String of Pearls suits arid and semi-arid, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
String of Pearls does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
String of Pearls is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune String of Pearls after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using String of Pearls in the garden
String of Pearls earns its place for hanging baskets and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair String of Pearls with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying String of Pearls
Plant Sale lists String of Pearls as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.