How to Care for Curio rowleyanus (String of pearls)

Korean name: 구슬란

A unique succulent with round leaves that resemble beads, cascading down. When grown in a hanging basket, it beautifully resembles a bead curtain.

Key facts

Care Guide

Detailed care guide

String of pearls is a distinctive succulent with round, bead-like leaves that trail downward. It looks beautiful in a hanging basket and adds a lovely touch indoors.

Watering

Water string of pearls generously once the soil has dried out completely. It tolerates dry conditions well but is sensitive to overwatering. Too much water can make the leaves mushy and yellow, so adjust your watering accordingly.

Light

It grows well in bright indirect light or a spot with direct sun. If light is lacking, the stems can grow long and the shape can become straggly. Avoid spots that are too dark.

Humidity

String of pearls prefers dry conditions. If humidity is high, the roots can rot or the leaves can turn mushy, so a well-ventilated spot is best.

Temperature

It grows healthy between 10–28°C. If it's too cold, the leaves may be damaged or fall off, so be careful when temperatures drop.

A common first-timer mistake

First-time growers often make the mistake of watering too often. Make it a habit to water only after the soil has dried out completely.

If you have pets

String of pearls is toxic to pets. Keep it somewhere dogs or cats can't chew on the leaves or stems, and contact a vet right away if you suspect your pet has eaten some.

Care by Season

Growth is most active in spring and summer, so fertilizing once every two months will help it grow healthy. You can water a bit more often during this period, but always check the soil condition each time. In fall and winter, growth slows, so cut back on watering and fertilizing, and keep the environment as dry as possible.

Common Problems and Fixes

String of pearls is sensitive to overwatering — watering before the soil has dried out can turn the leaves mushy or yellow. On the other hand, keeping it too dry can cause the leaf tips to turn brown. Also, if light is lacking, the stems grow excessively long, so try moving it to a different spot.

Repotting and Propagation

Repot once the roots have filled the pot. Use a well-draining soil mix made for succulents to keep the roots and leaves looking healthy. You can propagate it by taking stem cuttings or laying a healthy stem on top of the soil.

Who It's Great For

It's a great recommendation for anyone who wants an easy-care indoor plant that also serves as a decorative accent. Placed by a sunny window or in a hanging basket, it can give your home a fresh, stylish feel. Since it tolerates dry conditions well, it's also a good fit for a busy lifestyle.

Written by AI from the care facts in this entry. Treat it as a starting point.

Common questions

How often should you water Curio rowleyanus?

Water after the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering. Roughly every 14 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Curio rowleyanus?

It likes Bright indirect light to direct sunlight. You can grow it indoors. Use Well-draining soil for succulents.

Is Curio rowleyanus safe around pets?

Toxic, so keep it well away from pets and children.

Is Curio rowleyanus good for beginners?

Difficulty: Moderate. Keep it around 10~28°C. Humidity: Dry environment. Fertilise Once every 2 months in spring and summer.