String of Dolphins Care Guide
The String of Dolphins plant, also known as Senecio peregrinus, is a low-maintenance and easy-to-care-for succulent plant that has become a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts. Native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soils in the wild, its leaves resemble a pod of jumping dolphins, making it a charming addition to any indoor space!
Also in this family are String of Pearls, String of Turtle, String of Tear Drop, String of Banana, String of Hearts, and String of Donkey Tail or Burro’s Tail. While some of them look more similar than others, they are all in the same succulent family.
5 Tips on String of Dolphins Plant Care (Especially #1)
Despite its unique appearance, caring for this plant is pretty straightforward. So, whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, read on to learn how to care for this delightful and hassle-free houseplant!
Drought-tolerant
The String of Dolphins is a drought-tolerant plant, so it's important not to overwater it. Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause them to rot.
Not too Much Sunlight
The String of Dolphins thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to become sparse and stretched out.
Humidity
Your plant doesn't require high humidity but does appreciate occasional misting or being placed near a humidifier. This will help keep the leaves from drying out and keep the plant looking lush and healthy!
Easy to Share
If your plant has become to large for you or if you are just in the mood to share the love, propagating your String of Dolphins is easy! Simply take a stem cutting and allow it to dry out for a few days. Then, plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly until new growth appears.
Temperature
As it is in the succulent family, your String of Dolphins prefers temperatures between 60 and 80°F. Keep it away from cold drafts and extreme temperatures to prevent damage to the plant.
Did you know?
The String of Dolphins is actually a hybrid of two other succulent species: String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) and Candle Plant (Senecio articulatus). The plant’s unique leaf shape is the result of a mutation in the String of Pearls plant, which caused the leaves to grow in a curved shape resembling a pod of dolphins.
Because these plants are trailers, with proper care it can grow up to 3 feet long, making it a great choice for hanging baskets or as a cascading plant on a shelf. However, like many succulent plants, the String of Dolphins is toxic to pets and humans if ingested, so keep it out of reach of children and pets.
