Potted: String of Pearls

Photo - Linda Ross

String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)

This is an easy-to-grow, dry-loving succulent that looks like dripping stems of bright green peas on a string. It comes from southern Africa and prefers a light position, inside or out. Despite its delicate appearance, this unusual plant is vigorous and will quickly creep across the surface of a hanging basket, then cascade down the side, reaching 60-90 cm. Trim long stems that have become straggly. Poke healthy stem tip cuttings back into the soil to create a full, lush plant. Give string of pearls a cool 13-16°C rest over winter. Cut back on watering during the winter months, but don't allow the potting mix to dry out completely. These cool, dry conditions will promote spring blooms of spectacular clusters of small, white, trumpet-shaped flowers studded with colourful stamens.

Text: Linda Ross