Plant Care
How to Care for String of Bananas
on Apr 22 2026
How to Care for String of Bananas: The Complete Guide
String of Bananas (Senecio radicans) is the easier, faster-growing cousin of String of Pearls. Its curved, banana-shaped leaves dangle from cascading stems, creating a lush, trailing succulent display. If String of Pearls has proven difficult for you, String of Bananas is your redemption plant.
String of Bananas at a Glance
Botanical Name
Senecio radicans (syn. Curio radicans)
Common Names
String of Bananas, Banana Vine, Fishhook Senecio
Plant Type
Trailing succulent
Mature Size
Trails 2–4 ft.
Light
Bright indirect to some direct sun
Water
When soil is completely dry
Humidity
Low to average (30–50%)
Temperature
55–80°F (13–27°C)
Soil
Fast-draining succulent/cactus mix
Toxicity
Toxic to pets
Difficulty
Easy to moderate
Care Guide
String of Bananas follows the same basic care as other trailing Senecios — bright light, infrequent deep watering, and fast-draining soil. It's more forgiving than String of Pearls, tolerating slightly lower light and less precise watering.
Light: Bright indirect with some morning sun. More light = fuller growth.
Water: Soak-and-dry method. Every 10–14 days summer, every 3–4 weeks winter.
Soil: Succulent/cactus mix. Terracotta pots ideal.
Propagation: Stem cuttings laid on soil root easily in 2–3 weeks.
Common Problems
Mushy Stems
Overwatering. Cut above the rot, let callous, re-root in dry soil.
Sparse, Leggy Growth
Needs more light. Move to a brighter spot and prune back for fuller regrowth.
👉 Shop String of Bananas · Shop Starter Plant
Frequently Asked Questions
Is String of Bananas easier than String of Pearls?
Yes! String of Bananas is more forgiving with watering, tolerates slightly lower light, and grows faster. If you've struggled with String of Pearls, try String of Bananas instead.
How fast does String of Bananas grow?
Quite fast for a succulent. In good conditions, expect several inches of new growth per month during spring and summer.
Is String of Bananas toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep in hanging baskets out of reach or choose pet-safe alternatives.
Does String of Bananas flower?
Yes! In bright light, it produces small white flowers with a cinnamon-like fragrance. Blooming usually occurs in fall or winter.
The easier, faster String-of. Shop String of Bananas at Divine Roots.
🌿 Related Reading
Hanging Plants Indoor
Succulent Care Guide
Best Houseplants for Apartments
How to Care for Echeveria
How to Care for Sempervivum
Show
per page

