Senecio rowleyanus - 'String of Pearls'

A succulent with jewelry for leaves! String of Pearls sends out slender trailing stems strung with plump green beads, creating a living curtain that looks especially fabulous spilling from a hanging basket, shelf, wall pot, or elevated container. The spherical foliage is not merely decorative—it gives the plant its unmistakable sculptural character and makes even a single pot feel like a small botanical oddity.

The plant itself stays only a few inches tall, but established trails can eventually reach 2–3 feet. That dramatic downward habit makes placement important: give it enough height to cascade freely and enough proximity to enjoy the bead-like leaves up close. It is handsome alone and equally striking threaded through mixed succulent pots with contrasting rosettes, spikes, silver foliage, or dark stone.

Bright light keeps the growth compact and full. The larger consideration is moisture: those pearl-shaped leaves store water, so sharp drainage and a light hand with the watering can matter far more than frequent attention. Protect it from hard frost and prolonged wet conditions, particularly when grown outdoors in cooler weather.

Whimsical, architectural, and just a little ridiculous—in the best possible way—String of Pearls is one of the few plants that can make gravity look like a design feature. Explore more succulents.

Safety note: Senecio foliage is toxic if ingested, especially to pets and livestock. Keep the plant and fallen material out of reach of children and animals.