How often should I water string of pearls?

Every 2 weeks in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. In fall and winter, reduce to once a month. String of pearls is sensitive to overwatering — mushy, translucent pearls are a sign you're watering too much.

What light does string of pearls need?

Bright indirect light to a few hours of direct morning sun. String of pearls needs more light than many succulents to maintain compact bead growth. In low light the pearls space out and the plant becomes sparse. A south or east-facing window is ideal.

Is string of pearls toxic to cats and dogs?

Yes. String of pearls is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Keep hanging baskets out of reach of curious pets.

How do I propagate string of pearls?

String of pearls is very easy to propagate. Lay a strand on moist succulent mix and press the nodes lightly into the soil — roots develop where the strand touches. Alternatively, cut a 3–4 inch strand and lay it on moist soil. Keep lightly moist until rooted.

Why are my string of pearls shriveling or flattening?

Shriveled or flat pearls indicate underwatering — give the plant a thorough drink and they should plump back up within a day. Mushy or translucent pearls indicate overwatering. Brown papery pearls from the top of strands can mean too much direct sun.

String of Pearls

Moderate

Curio rowleyanus

String of pearls is a cascading succulent with bead-like spherical leaves that tumbles dramatically from shelves and hanging baskets — a collector's favourite.

Light

Bright indirect to some direct light

Water

Every 2 weeks

Humidity

Low (30–50%)

Temperature

60–75°F (15–24°C)

Toxicity

Toxic to pets

Full care guide coming soon. Check back for detailed information on light, watering, soil, propagation, and common problems for String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus).

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water string of pearls?: Every 2 weeks in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. In fall and winter, reduce to once a month. String of pearls is sensitive to overwatering — mushy, translucent pearls are a sign you're watering too much.
What light does string of pearls need?: Bright indirect light to a few hours of direct morning sun. String of pearls needs more light than many succulents to maintain compact bead growth. In low light the pearls space out and the plant becomes sparse. A south or east-facing window is ideal.
Is string of pearls toxic to cats and dogs?: Yes. String of pearls is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Keep hanging baskets out of reach of curious pets.
How do I propagate string of pearls?: String of pearls is very easy to propagate. Lay a strand on moist succulent mix and press the nodes lightly into the soil — roots develop where the strand touches. Alternatively, cut a 3–4 inch strand and lay it on moist soil. Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Why are my string of pearls shriveling or flattening?: Shriveled or flat pearls indicate underwatering — give the plant a thorough drink and they should plump back up within a day. Mushy or translucent pearls indicate overwatering. Brown papery pearls from the top of strands can mean too much direct sun.

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