Growing and Caring for Curio Radicans

Curio radicans, formerly known as Senecio radicans, and commonly referred to as String of Bananas, is a charming trailing succulent native to the lush landscapes of southern Africa. This delightful plant not only adds a touch of elegance to your living spaces but also serves as a low-maintenance alternative to the more finicky String of Pearls. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the nuances of growing and caring for this remarkable succulent.

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Light Requirements

Light is incredibly important for your String of Bananas. When you’re growing this plant indoors, make sure it gets a good amount of direct sunlight. A window facing east or west without obstructions is great. If you’re in the Northern hemisphere, a sunny southern window is perfect. In the Southern hemisphere, go for a northern exposure window.

But remember, if your window doesn’t get much direct sunlight, it’s not the best for your String of Bananas. The plant will still grow, but it will be slower, and the leaves will be smaller and thinner.

Potting Mix

To keep your String of Bananas healthy, it needs a potting mix that drains well and dries out quickly. You have a couple of good options for creating the right mix. One way is to use half cactus or succulent potting mix and half 1/4″ pumice. Another good mix is to use 2 parts cactus or succulent potting mix, 1 part perlite, and 1 part 1/4″ pumice. Both of these will work well for your plant.

Repotting

When it’s time to repot your String of Bananas, be careful not to choose a pot that’s too big or deep. Take your time and don’t rush to repot your plant. If you do need to repot, only go up one pot size. For example, if your plant is in a 4-inch pot, move it to a 6-inch pot.

This is especially important for succulents like String of Bananas. Putting them in a pot that’s too big will make the soil take longer to dry out, which can be a problem, especially if your plant is in less than ideal conditions like low light or cooler temperatures.

Watering

String of Bananas benefits from thorough watering, allowing at least the top half of the potting mix to dry out. While these succulents can tolerate complete drying, it’s essential to avoid prolonged periods of extreme dryness, as this will cause the characteristic “bananas” to wrinkle and eventually desiccate.

Ensure you water sufficiently without the need for precise measurements or minimal watering. The goal is to moisten the entire potting mix thoroughly, which should not be mistaken for overwatering. Inadequate watering usually indicates other unfavorable conditions like low light, cooler temperatures, or pots that are too large.

It is paramount never to let your plant sit in standing water, as prolonged exposure to excess moisture can lead to root rot, particularly in succulents.

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Fertilizing

While many succulents require minimal fertilization, String of Bananas is a relatively fast grower under favorable conditions. During active growth periods, ensure you fertilize the plant to promote robust development. However, refrain from fertilizing when the plant is not actively growing.

Temperature Tolerance

String of Bananas exhibits an impressive tolerance to temperature variations. Although it thrives in warmer conditions, it can withstand temperatures as low as the 30s Fahrenheit, provided it remains above freezing (32°F or 0°C). In fact, it can endure temperatures as low as 35°F, as I’ve personally observed.

Propagation

The propagation of String of Bananas is remarkably straightforward. You can create new plants using stem cuttings or even by coiling a lengthy strand directly on top of a pot filled with potting mix. For a step-by-step guide complete with photos, refer to amazing blog post on String of Bananas Soil Propagation: 2 Quick and Easy Methods.

FAQs

Why is my String of Bananas growing upwards?

An upward growth pattern typically indicates inadequate light. Relocate your plant to a spot with stronger light. These succulents thrive when placed in direct sunlight, ideally in front of a window.

Why is my String of Bananas dying at the base?

Unusual growth patterns at the base are often attributed to extremes in soil moisture. Ensure your soil is adequately moist, as extended dry periods can lead to the death of the plant at the base. Propagating the stems with leaves is the best course of action when your plant appears unhealthy.

What is String of Bananas hardiness?

String of Bananas cannot endure freezing temperatures but can withstand temperatures in the 30s Fahrenheit as long as they remain above freezing (32°F or 0°C).

Why do my String of Bananas have small leaves?

Small leaves and spindly growth are indicative of insufficient light. Ensure your plant receives the adequate light it needs.

Why is my String of Bananas not growing?

Light intensity is paramount. Cool temperatures can also slow growth rates.

Why are my leaves wrinkling on my String of Bananas?

Check your potting mix for moisture levels. These succulents prefer to avoid prolonged periods of complete dryness.

Can you trim String of Bananas?

Absolutely! Trimming your plant is acceptable, and you can use the cuttings to propagate new String of Bananas. The original plant will regrow.

Does String of Bananas flower?

Yes, String of Bananas does flower. The blooms resemble small white poofs and have a delightful cinnamon-like fragrance.

Is String of Bananas toxic to cats?

According to the ASPCA, String of Pearls is toxic to cats, although they do not specify the toxicity of String of Bananas. Given their close relation, it is advisable to exercise caution when keeping String of Bananas around your feline friends.

String of Bananas Outdoors

If you want to grow your String of Bananas outside, it’s a good idea. These plants grow quickly when it’s warm outside. But, remember that the sunlight outside is much stronger than inside, so you need to get your plant used to it slowly.

If you don’t do this, your plant might get burned by the strong sun. To prevent this, start by putting your plant in the shade outside for a week and then slowly let it get more sunlight. Some people make the mistake of putting their plants in direct sunlight too quickly, and this can harm them.

In short, String of Bananas is a lovely and easy-to-take-care-of plant. It adds charm to your home, and by following the tips in this guide, you can make sure it stays healthy. If you’re thinking of getting one, you can find a variety of options on Etsy.

Have you ever grown String of Bananas? Share your experiences in the comments below! Your thoughts can help others take care of their plants better.