What is string of bananas?
String of bananas (Curio radicans, formerly Senecio radicans) is a trailing succulent in the daisy family (Asteraceae) native to South Africa. Its plump, curved, banana-shaped leaves give it an immediately recognisable look, strung together on long, slender stems that can cascade 2–3 feet from a hanging basket. It’s faster-growing and generally more forgiving than its close relative string of pearls, making it a popular choice for beginners drawn to trailing succulents.
Pet safety warning: String of bananas is toxic to cats and dogs. As a member of the Senecio/Curio genus, it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause liver damage. Keep it well out of reach of pets and children. If ingestion is suspected, contact your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
How much light does string of bananas need?
Bright light is key to keeping the stems dense and the leaves plump. String of bananas does best in bright indirect to gentle direct light — a south- or west-facing window is ideal. In lower light, the stems etiolate: they stretch out, leaves space apart, and lose their compact, lush look. Avoid harsh midday sun through south-facing glass, which can bleach and scorch the leaf tips. An east or west window with a few hours of direct morning or afternoon sun is the sweet spot.
How often should you water string of bananas?
Water every 2–3 weeks in the growing season, letting the soil dry out completely first. The best indicator is the leaves themselves — when they start to look slightly less plump and firm, it’s time to water. Use the “soak and dry” method: drench the pot thoroughly until water runs from the drainage hole, then don’t water again until the mix is completely dry. Never let the pot sit in a saucer of water. Overwatering and root rot are the primary threats to trailing succulents.
How does string of bananas compare to string of pearls?
Both are members of the Curio genus (formerly Senecio), and both trail from hanging baskets in a similar way. The key differences: string of bananas has elongated, curved leaves resembling tiny bananas, while string of pearls has round, bead-like spheres. String of bananas is also faster-growing and more drought-tolerant — it bounces back from underwatering more readily and can tolerate a little more neglect. If you’ve killed a string of pearls, try string of bananas as an easier entry point to the same aesthetic.
How do you propagate string of bananas?
Stem cuttings are easy and root quickly. Take a 3–4 inch cutting, remove the bottom few leaves, and let the cut end callous for a day. Plant the bare section into dry succulent mix (several cuttings per pot for a fuller look) and water lightly once roots have established in 2–3 weeks. Alternatively, pin the stems to the soil surface and they will root at the nodes. In warm conditions, string of bananas propagates almost enthusiastically.
Is string of bananas toxic to pets?
Yes — Curio radicans belongs to the Senecio genus, which the ASPCA flags as toxic to cats and dogs due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These compounds can cause liver damage with significant ingestion. Keep it in a high hanging basket completely out of reach of pets. Contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if you suspect ingestion.