How often should I water my String of Pearls?

Water every 10–14 days in spring and summer, and every 20–28 days in winter, checking the soil first. Watering style: soak dry. Water only when the pearls start to feel a little soft and wrinkled. They store water — treat them like a trailing succulent.

Care guide · moderate care

How to care for String of Pearls

Q: How much light does a String of Pearls need?

Bright, indirect light. Bright, indirect light — right beside an east or north window, or a little back from a sunny one, with no direct rays touching the leaves.

Q: Is String of Pearls toxic to cats or dogs?

Yes — Mildly toxic — can cause stomach upset. Keep it out of reach and call your vet if symptoms are more than mild.

Q: Is String of Pearls good for beginners?

Care level: moderate. String of pearls looks delicate but is a succulent at heart: bright light, and water only when the little pearls wrinkle. Perfect for high shelves.

Senecio rowleyanus

Written by Benjamin — a plant parent, not a search engine.

How often should I water String of Pearls, and what light does it need?

String of pearls looks delicate but is a succulent at heart: bright light, and water only when the little pearls wrinkle. Perfect for high shelves. Water it every 10–14 days while it is growing and every 20–28 days in winter, always checking the soil first. Give it bright, indirect light. It is toxic to cats and/or dogs — more detail below.

Last updated August 14, 2026

At a glance

Watering style: soak dry; 10–14 days growing · 20–28 days winter
Light: Bright, indirect light
Pet safety: Toxic to pets

The short version

The one-sentence rule

Water only when the pearls start to feel a little soft and wrinkled. They store water — treat them like a trailing succulent.

Light, made concrete

What bright, indirect light actually means

Bright, indirect light — right beside an east or north window, or a little back from a sunny one, with no direct rays touching the leaves.

Pet safety

Is String of Pearls toxic to cats or dogs?

Yes — Mildly toxic — can cause stomach upset. If your pet chews the plant, expect possible mouth irritation or an upset stomach, and call your vet if symptoms are more than mild. Keep it out of reach where you can.

Good to know

Who this plant is for

✓hanging shelves
✓bright sills
✓succulent-style watering

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