Senecio rowleyanus ‘Variegatus’ (mini)

Variegated String of Pearls is a beautiful trailing succulent with delicate stems covered in round, pearl-like leaves marbled in shades of green, cream and white. Traditionally sold as Senecio rowleyanus ‘Variegatus’, its currently accepted botanical name is Curio rowleyanus ‘Variegatus’.

Each pearl develops its own individual pattern of variegation, from subtle cream streaks to much paler leaves, giving the plant a wonderfully light and unusual appearance as its stems begin to cascade over the edge of the pot.

Light & Position

Give Variegated String of Pearls plenty of bright light. Bright indirect light with some gentle direct sun is ideal and helps maintain compact growth and strong variegation.

The pale areas of the leaves contain less chlorophyll and can scorch more easily than the plain green form, so introduce stronger direct sunlight gradually and protect from intense midday summer sun.

Watering

Allow the compost to dry thoroughly between waterings, then water well and let all excess water drain away. The rounded succulent leaves store water, making this plant much more tolerant of being kept a little dry than of sitting in damp compost.

Water considerably less during autumn and winter when growth slows. Avoid allowing the pot to stand in water or keeping the centre of the plant continuously wet.

Humidity & Temperature

Variegated String of Pearls prefers normal to lower household humidity and does not require misting. Keep in a warm, bright position and away from cold draughts, ideally above around 10°C.

Feeding

Feed lightly approximately once a month during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser at reduced strength while the plant is actively growing. Reduce or stop feeding during autumn and winter.

Flowers

Mature plants grown in good conditions can produce small, fragrant white to cream flower heads on slender stems. The flowers have an unusual soft, paintbrush-like appearance rather than conventional daisy petals.

Trailing Growth

String of Pearls naturally develops long cascading stems and looks particularly effective on a high shelf or plant stand. If growth becomes sparse, strands can be trimmed and healthy cuttings laid back onto the compost to encourage a fuller plant.

Why You'll Love It

• Round pearl-like leaves marbled in green, cream and white
• Every plant develops its own individual variegation
• Elegant trailing growth for shelves and elevated pots
• Drought-tolerant once established
• More unusual than the classic green String of Pearls
• Compact 6cm size that's ideal for smaller spaces

Pet & Child Safety

String of Pearls is harmful if eaten and its sap can irritate the skin. Keep out of reach of pets and young children and wash your hands after handling damaged or cut stems.

Plant Details

Accepted Botanical Name: Curio rowleyanus ‘Variegatus’
Synonym / Trade Name: Senecio rowleyanus ‘Variegatus’
Common Name: Variegated String of Pearls
Nursery Pot Size: 6cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 8cm
Growth Habit: Trailing
Plant Type: Succulent