String of Pearls Varieties
A comparison of the most popular String of Pearls varieties — learn which one is right for your space and skill level.
| Variety | Key Feature | Care Difficulty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senecio rowleyanus (Standard) | Perfectly round pea-sized green leaves with translucent window stripe; classic beaded appearance | Easy | Varies |
| String of Bananas (Senecio radicans) | Elongated banana-shaped leaves instead of round pearls; faster growing; more forgiving | Easy | Varies |
| Variegated String of Pearls | Green and cream-white striped pearls; variegated coloring; rare form | Easy | Varies |
| String of Tears (Senecio citriformis) | Teardrop-shaped leaves with pointed tips; wider at base than round String of Pearls | Easy | Varies |
Variety Details
Senecio rowleyanus (Standard)
The classic String of Pearls with perfectly round, pea-sized green leaves. Each pearl has a translucent "window" stripe. The most common and recognizable form.
Distinguishing feature: Perfectly round pea-sized green leaves with translucent window stripe; classic beaded appearance
Care notes: Standard String of Pearls care. Most widely available. The iconic trailing succulent.
String of Bananas (Senecio radicans)
A close relative with elongated, banana-shaped leaves instead of round pearls. Easier to grow and more tolerant of varying conditions.
Distinguishing feature: Elongated banana-shaped leaves instead of round pearls; faster growing; more forgiving
Care notes: Easier to grow than String of Pearls. More tolerant of slight overwatering and lower light. A great "starter" trailing succulent.
Variegated String of Pearls
A rare form with green and white striped pearls. The variegation adds a beautiful cream coloring to the strands.
Distinguishing feature: Green and cream-white striped pearls; variegated coloring; rare form
Care notes: Needs brighter light to maintain variegation. More sensitive to overwatering — white portions are weaker. Slower growing than standard. More expensive.
String of Tears (Senecio citriformis)
A similar species with teardrop-shaped leaves that have a pointed tip and a wider base, giving a "teardrop" or "raindrop" appearance.
Distinguishing feature: Teardrop-shaped leaves with pointed tips; wider at base than round String of Pearls
Care notes: Similar care to String of Pearls. Slightly more tolerant of varying conditions. The teardrop shape is distinctive and attractive.