Tropicals

Curio rowleyanus

String of pearls

Also known as: String of beads · Senecio rowleyanus

Curio rowleyanus. Available sizes and selections vary.

Pea-shaped green leaves line slender trailing stems, creating a curtain of living beads. It works especially well in hanging pots and on bright shelves. Provide strong indirect light and careful watering; it is less forgiving of wet soil than its appearance suggests.

At a glance

Water: Infrequent watering; avoid complete prolonged drying
Bloom: Small fragrant white flowers in summer; uncommon indoors.
Light: Bright indirect light; partial shade outdoors
Mature size: Length: Trailing stems about 1–3 ft.

Sizes & prices

6"Call for price

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Drought: Tolerates dry periods but should not remain completely dry.
Wet soil: Soggy roots quickly rot.

Safety & handling: Harmful if eaten by people or pets; sap may irritate skin.

Cats & dogs: Keep out of reach.

If a pet eats a potentially toxic plant, contact your veterinarian promptly.

Growing & care

Soil: Cactus mix or well-drained mix with perlite.
Winter: Bring indoors before frost; cooler winter conditions suit it.
Propagation: Root stem sections with several nodes to refresh older plants.
Pests: Check for mealybugs and aphids.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0

Image notes: Curio rowleyanus. Available sizes and selections vary. Uncropped.

Reviewed September 26, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.