Senecio (String of Pearls) - Care tips

Senecio (String of Pearls)

Senecio is a large plant genus within the daisy family (Asteraceae) that includes more than 1,000 species spread throughout the world, ranging from noxious weeds to highly valued garden perennials. This genus is also used as a garden plant, but only in warmer climates. Some are large shrubs, but many are hanging plants used as ground covers or in hanging baskets.

The leaves of succulent Senecios are generally thick and fleshy. They can be deep green, bluish or even striped, but there is much variation in leaf shape. Some are round, some banana-shaped, and some are upright. A very versatile plant family!

Senecio Care Tips

Light and placement for the Senecio

Senecio plants prefer a good sunny spot when grown as houseplants in cooler climates. Especially in winter, give them the sunniest place you can find. Like most succulents, they are heat-tolerant. Some Senecio species can tolerate short periods of cold or humidity, but prolonged exposure to cold will kill them. So keep them in a warm and not too draughty place. Finally, also important: make sure the soil is well drained and on the sandy side.

Water

As succulents, Senecios can withstand drought very well. With most species, the roots must dry out completely between waterings. So always check the potting soil thoroughly before you water it again. Soaking in water will make the roots and the plants mushy and will therefore not do much good. At least this plant will not blame you if you forget her once in a while.

Nutrition

As Senecio plants often grow on sandy soil, nutrients will need to be replenished. Fertilise annually, but lightly. Also, fertilise only during the growing season. It is not necessary in the winter. Too much fertilisation can cause root burn.

Propagating Senecio

Cuttings are the easiest and fastest way to propagate Senecios. It is best to do this during the growing season. Cut a stem or leave and plant it in a pot with sandy soil. This way you can let your cuttings develop roots and start a new plant. How cool is that! Because there are many different types of Senecios, we always advise you to check carefully which is the best way to take cuttings for your Senecio.

Most common pest on Senecio

There are few pests that affect Senecio plants. If they do have a problem, it may be that they are infested by scale insects and mealybugs. If this is the case, we recommend you visit our PLNTS doctor. Here you will find all the tips and tricks to control these pests.

Is the Senecio toxic for pets or children?

Unfortunately, all Senecio species must be considered poisonous, some more than others. All parts of the plant are poisonous, even when dried. It can even cause severe, irreversible liver disease. So please keep your pets and small children away from your Senecio. Place the plant high, so it can hardly go wrong.

Buy your new Senecio at PLNTS.com

At PLNTS.com you can buy your new Senecio online. Whether you like your PLNTS big from the start or prefer to grow them from tiny BabyPLNTS into full-grown PLNTS - we’ve got you covered!