String of Banana
This plant is a distant cousin of Dandelions (Asteraceae family) believe it or not. However, it as a succulent. This particular succulent has leaves that are in the shape of glossy bananas, hence the name. The shape of their leave allows for maximum water storage but they minimize the surface area of the leaf, thus less sun exposure. Perfect for beginners.
Part Sun
Low
Medium
Pet Toxic
The Dirt
Native to South Africa. Some say this is an easier succulent to care for than String of Pearls. This is because the stems don’t dry out and brown as much as the Pearls do. This plant grows rather quickly and cascades down faster than growing lengthwise. If too long? You can cut and propagate! These plants can flower tiny white bursts that smell like cinnamon.
Part Sun
This plant likes most rooms with windows facing west or east. You could place it in a spot away from a very sunny window – as light intensity goes down quick as you move away from the light source.
Low
Water every three weeks. Let soil dry up before watering. Feel the soil, top layer should be dry, if not dry, wait two days. If the soil still is wet you risk giving the plant too much water, you don’t want it to rot.
Pet Toxic
Only when ingested it may cause mild oral and gastrointestinal upsetness. Keep out of reach from pets and small children.
String Of Banana
Care Tips
Keep out of direct sunlight since the leaves can burn
Water every 2-3 weeks thoroughly and let soil dry before watering again
Too much water can make the thin stems prone to pests and mold. Try to water the soil, as oppose to the leaves
Remove anything that turns brown
Native to South Africa
Common Names
String of Bananas
Botanical Name
Senecio Radicans
Family
Asteraceae