What is string of dolphins?
String of dolphins (Curio peregrinus, formerly Senecio peregrinus) is a trailing succulent from the Asteraceae family, widely thought to be a natural hybrid between string of pearls (Curio rowleyanus) and candle plant (Curio articulatus). Its common name is entirely literal: each small, curved leaf is shaped uncannily like a leaping dolphin, complete with a tiny “fin” and a translucent window stripe along the upper surface. In a hanging planter the stems cascade over the rim, showing off the dolphin silhouettes from below. It is one of the most sought-after novelty succulents in the collector market and, while not dramatically difficult, is somewhat less forgiving than its close relative string of pearls.
Is string of dolphins toxic to pets?
Yes. String of dolphins belongs to the Curio genus (formerly Senecio) and shares the pyrrolizidine alkaloids found across the group, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion can cause vomiting, lethargy, and — in larger quantities — liver damage. Because the trailing stems are especially tempting to curious cats, place this plant on a high shelf or in a room your pets cannot reach.
How much light does string of dolphins need?
Light is the most important variable for this plant. String of dolphins needs several hours of bright, indirect light daily — ideally a south- or east-facing window. Without adequate light two things happen: the stems etiolate (stretch toward the source, leaving long bare gaps between leaves) and, more distinctively, the leaves flatten out and lose their dolphin shape. The arched, curved silhouette only forms when the plant has enough light to develop fully. In darker apartments, a full-spectrum grow light set on a 12-hour timer is a reliable substitute.
How often should you water string of dolphins?
Water every 14–21 days during active growth in spring and summer, and much less in winter — once a month or less as growth slows. The key rule is to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. String of dolphins, like all Curio succulents, stores water in its leaves; overwatering is far more dangerous than underwatering. The leaves serve as a live moisture gauge: when they feel very slightly less firm and plump than usual, it is time to water thoroughly.
What soil and pot does string of dolphins need?
Use a fast-draining succulent or cactus mix — ideally cut with extra perlite or coarse grit (roughly 50/50) so the roots never sit in wet soil. A pot with drainage holes is non-negotiable. Terracotta pots help wick away excess moisture and are particularly suited to this species. Avoid heavy, peat-based potting mixes, which retain moisture far too long for a drought-adapted succulent.
How do you propagate string of dolphins?
String of dolphins propagates readily from stem cuttings:
- Snip a healthy stem 3–4 inches long, cutting just below a leaf node.
- Set the cutting on a dry paper towel for 24–48 hours to let the cut end callous over.
- Lay the calloused end on — not buried in — barely moist, fast-draining succulent mix.
- Place in bright indirect light and mist the soil very lightly every few days.
- Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; once the cutting resists a gentle tug, it has rooted.
Avoid burying the leaves themselves in soil, as they rot easily. Once rooted, treat as a mature plant and transition to normal deep-watering cycles.