Senecio rowleyanus maintenance: complete beginner's guide

Introduction

Original and graphic, the Senecio rowleyanus – or String of Pearls – seduces with its drooping stems adorned with small green beads. Easy to maintain, it's perfect for succulent lovers and beginners alike. Let's discover together how to care for this unique plant.

Identity card of Senecio rowleyanus

  • Botanical name: Senecio rowleyanus
  • Common name: String of Pearls
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Origin: South Africa
  • Type: Creeping and trailing succulent plant
  • Size: Up to 1 meter in length indoors
Senecio rowleyanus - String of pearls cuttings in soil, string of pearls plant

Senecio rowleyanus - String of pearls cuttings in soil, string of pearls plant

10.00€

View product

Care instructions

🌞 Light

Senecio rowleyanus likes bright light without direct, scorching sunlight. Place it near a well-exposed east or west window. It can tolerate a few hours of mild sunlight, especially in the morning. If it lacks light, its stems will stretch and lose their compact shape.

💧 Watering

Like all succulents, this plant does not like overwatering. Wait until the substrate is completely dry before watering. In summer, watering every 10 to 15 days is sufficient. In winter, reduce the frequency even further. Water from below if possible to prevent stem crown rot.

🌡️ Temperature

It prefers temperatures between 18 and 24°C. Avoid temperatures below 10°C. Senecio is not hardy and is sensitive to frost. Keep it away from cold drafts and open windows in winter.

🌱 Repotting

Repot every two to three years, preferably in spring. Use a pot with drainage holes and a special succulent substrate: light, well-draining, and low in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite is ideal for this low-demanding plant.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Too frequent watering which causes the stems and roots to rot
  • Exposure to too little light, causing etiolation
  • Use of classic potting soil that is too compact and damp
  • Watering from above promotes diseases at the crown
  • Hanging in a dark place, without enough indirect light

FAQ

Why do "pearls" fall?

Overwatering or insufficient light can weaken the stems, causing the pearls to drop. Reduce watering and move the plant to a brighter location.

How to propagate a Senecio rowleyanus?

Take a 10–15 cm stem, let the end dry for 24 hours, then place it on a dry substrate. It will root within a few weeks.

Can it flower indoors?

Yes, but it's rare. It can produce small, fragrant white flowers if the conditions are very bright and the plant is mature.

Is Senecio poisonous?

Yes, it can be toxic if swallowed. Keep it away from children and pets.

Can it be installed outdoors?

Yes, but only in summer or in a mild climate. Place it in light shade and bring it indoors as soon as temperatures drop below 10°C.

Conclusion

Senecio rowleyanus is a trailing plant with a unique charm. Undemanding, it thrives with little water, plenty of light, and a suitable substrate. With these few simple steps, you'll enjoy its long, pearly stems for a long time, adding a graphic touch to any interior.

Our collections