String of Dolphins - Everything You Need to Know

The String of Dolphins (sometimes called Dolphin Necklace) is a popular hanging and trailing succulent that adds a unique touch to your space. The leaves of the string of dolphin's plant are shaped like miniature dolphins with a gray-green color and a glossy texture.

This cute, adorable succulent has leaves that look like a pod of jumping or flying dolphins. This trailing succulent plant is a hybrid between Senecio rowleyanus (a string of pearls plant) and Senecio articulatus (Candle plant or hot dog cactus), combining the best features of both trailing plants, in the Asteraceae family.

Hailing all the way from Southwest Africa, a string of dolphins thrives in dry, Mediterranean climates, making them ideal for milder climates like California and indoor plants in hanging baskets. It can reach lengths of up to 3 feet and heights of 6 inches, and looks great spilling out of a hanging basket, trickling down over bookshelves, or even on the edge of a stair rail. 

A string of dolphins' plant has a distinctive appearance all its own, like the other popular trailing succulents; a string of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus), a String of fish hooks (Senecio radicans glauca), and a string of bananas (Senecio radicans), which you may already be familiar with. The String of Dolphins plant, also known as Curio peregrinus (Previously known as Senecio peregrinus), is a unique and charming succulent that resembles a pod of leaping dolphins.

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In our String of Dolphins Succulent Care & Buyers Guide below; we'll explore everything from its growth habits to how to propagate it. Whether you're a seasoned succulent collector or just starting out, read on for all you need to know about caring for this delightful desert dweller!

The foliage of the adorable succulent is characterized by:

1- Iconic dolphin-shaped leaves.

2- The leaves have long-hanging tendrils.

3- A dusty blue-green color.

String of Dolphins Flowers

The String of Dolphins plant produces small, white, and attractive cinnamon-scented flowers, which are inconspicuous compared to its adorable dolphin-shaped leaves.

Is String of Dolphins Toxic to Pets?

String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) can indeed be mildly-toxic to cats and dogs if ingested in a large amount. It's important to keep these dolphins' plants out of reach of our furry friends to ensure their safety. If you have pets at home, it's always a good idea to research the toxicity of plants before bringing them into your space. Your pets' well-being is a top priority, so make sure to choose pet-friendly plants for a safe and happy environment.

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String of Dolphins Care

The string of dolphins is a low-maintenance and easy-to-care-for indoor plant. These dolphin succulents are drought-tolerant, easy to propagate, and require no special care or maintenance. Their plump leaves retain water, making them versatile. It's perfect for plant enthusiasts of all levels, whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener. You'll love how effortlessly this trailing or hanging plant adds a touch of whimsy and greenery to your space!

String of Dolphins Watering Needs

When it comes to watering the String of Dolphins plant, it's important to find the right balance. This dolphin plant is a succulent, which means it can store water in its plump leaves and stems.  

Your succulent String of Dolphins needs to be watered no more than once or twice a week during the growing season in early spring to early fall even though it is drought tolerant. When the weather is colder in winter during its dormant period, ensure that you water it only once or twice every month. The dolphin plant requires the right amount of water to survive. If water accumulates at the plant's roots, they will rot, and in no time, you will find String of Dolphins dying. So, allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and then give it a thorough watering, ensuring that excess soil moisture drains out.

Remember, to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot, so it's better to underwater than overwater. Remember, it's always a good idea to observe the succulent plant and adjust your watering routine based on its specific needs.

String of Dolphins Light Requirements

Sunlight is another crucial aspect of the strings of dolphin plant care. It loves the bright natural morning sun, which is indirect. For an indoor window Senecio succulent, you need to place it near a south-facing window. If necessary, you can also place them under LED grow lights during the winter. However, direct sunlight can be too intense for this delicate dolphin succulent plant and may cause sunburn or leaf damage.

If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown, it may be a sign that your Senecio plant is getting too much direct sunlight. On the other hand, if it is not getting enough bright light, it may become leggy and lose its vibrant green color. So, finding that perfect balance of bright, indirect light is key to keeping your string of dolphins happy and healthy.

String of Dolphins Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

The most important String of Dolphin’s care rule is that you need to plant in a well-draining soil mix. It is best to order a standard succulent sandy soil mix for dolphin plant pots and gardens. Ensure that the pot is of an appropriate size and has adequate drainage holes at the bottom for water drainage. The potting soil-to-sand soil mix ratio is 3:1. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive.

When it comes to fertilizers, you don't need to use typical fertilizers to keep your dolphin succulent plant alive. However, it is advised to fertilize them at least once a year with natural balanced fertilizer NPK, ideally in the spring at the start of the blooming season. Avoid overfertilizing the soil to prevent the dancing dolphin plant from losing its adorable, distinctive shape.

String of Dolphins Hardiness Zone & More

The String of Dolphins plant is generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. These zones typically have mild to warm temperatures throughout the year, making them ideal for this tropical dolphin succulent plant. As for temperature and humidity, the string of dolphin's plant prefers temperatures between 60-80°F. It can tolerate slightly freezing temperatures as low as 40 F, but it's best to avoid extreme cold or frost.

In terms of humidity string of dolphins appreciates moderate to high humidity levels, similar to its natural tropical habitat. If you live in a drier climate, you can increase humidity around your Senecio succulent by misting it with water or placing a tray of water nearby. By providing the right temperature and humidity conditions, you'll create a comfortable environment for your string of dolphins' string plants to thrive!

reside in a warmer climatic region; you can leave the hanging succulent out all year through. 

Potting & Repotting of String of Dolphins

The string of dolphins, a trailing soft succulent should be repotted once every few years for nutrient-rich soil and healthy root growth. Each time goes in for a pot one size larger than the current one. They thrive in plastic and terracotta pots, with terracotta being preferred for moisture absorption. You can read dolphin pots reviews for Best Buy.

Propagating String of Dolphins

For healthy growth, a string of dolphins can be propagated with a sharp knife from stem cuttings with 2-3 nodes along the stem located at the leaf's emerging points.

1- Soil propagation - Propagating a string of dolphins is quite simple. Using a healthy stem cutting is the most straightforward answer to 'How to grow a String of Dolphins.' Place the cutting on the soil and keep misting it once every day. In some time, you will notice new root growth at the nodes.

2- Propagating String of Dolphins in Water - You can propagate a string of dolphins in water using stem cuttings. Take a strand of the string about 4 inches tall and place it in a jar filled with distilled or rainwater. Once it develops roots, you can transfer the plant to a well-drained potting mix.

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Pests & Common Problems of String of Dolphins

Generally, String of Dolphins is an easy-going indoor plant with very few challenges. The most common pests are mealybugs and scale insects, which can cause some white patches or brown spots on the leaves respectively. If you find any of these pests on your dolphin plant, don't fret! There are easy ways to get rid of them. Here are some common pests and problems that the String of Dolphins plant may encounter:

Mealybugs: These small, white, cottony insects can infest the String of Dolphins plant and cause damage. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them or use an insecticidal soap.

Spider mites: These tiny pests can create webbing and cause yellowing or stippling on the leaves. Regularly misting your plant and keeping the humidity levels up can help deter spider mites.

Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can cause the dolphin's plant's roots to become mushy and rot. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and allow it to dry out between waterings.

Leaf drop: Sudden changes in temperature, overwatering, or underwatering can lead to leaf drop. Maintain consistent watering and temperature conditions to prevent this problem.

By being aware of these potential pests and problems, you can take proactive measures to keep your String of Dolphins plants healthy and thriving!

Where to Buy a String of Dolphins?

If you're looking to buy a String of Dolphins plant, you can find these beautiful trailing succulents at various online nurseries. One of the best options is Planet Desert. We have a wide selection of over 500 succulents, including the stunning String of Dolphins. Planet Desert offers a convenient and easy way to shop for your favorite plants from the comfort of your own home. With our extensive collection and detailed descriptions, you can find the perfect String of Dolphins plant to add to your collection. 

The string of Dolphins Quick Growing Reference Guide

Common Name	String of Dolphins, Dolphin Plant, Flying Dolphins, Dolphin Necklace
Botanical Name	Curio peregrinus (Previously Senecio peregrinus)
Plant Type	Trailing/Hanging, Succulent
Sun Exposure	Full sun, Partial shade
Water Needs	Low
Flower Color	Low
Flower Color	White
Blooming Season	Spring
Soil Type	Succulent Soil Mix
Hardiness Zones	9, 10, 11
Toxicity	Mildly toxic to dogs and cats
Mature Size	6 in. tall

Overall, the String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) is a captivating succulent that adds a playful and whimsical touch to any plant collection. With its unique dolphin-shaped leaves and trailing vines, it's sure to be a conversation starter. While it's important to keep in mind that the plant can be mildly toxic to pets if ingested in a large amount, with proper care and placement, it can thrive and bring joy to your space. So, if you're looking for a succulent plant that combines beauty and charm, the String of Dolphins is an excellent choice!

FAQs of String of Dolphins

WHY IS MY STRING OF DOLPHINS DYING?

There could be several reasons why your string of dolphins is dying. It is important to consider factors such as water quality, temperature, and potential diseases that could be affecting them. 

A dry dolphin string means that it is receiving too much water or too little water. It is quite common in succulents. For example, paddle plant leaf curling usually means improper watering or light exposure. Additionally, inadequate nutrition or improper care may also contribute to their decline.

HOW DO I CARE FOR MY STRING OF DOLPHIN PLANTS?

Remember these tips for Senecio peregrinus care:

1- The first important tip for Senecio care is to offer it bright indirect sunlight.

2- Do not over or underwater.

3- The stringy succulents need well-drained soil.

4- These are cascading cactus plants. Give them the space to cascade down.

5- Fertilizers can be used once or twice a year during the growing season. The dormant months are the winter months.

HOW OFTEN DO I WATER MY STRING OF DOLPHINS?

The dolphin-shaped plant should be watered at least two times a week during growing seasons, typically in the spring and early fall. When it is cold or in the winter dormant period, the watering frequency should be reduced to just once or twice a month.

DOES STRING OF DOLPHINS NEED FULL SUN?

String of dolphins, like other succulents, prefer bright, indirect light. They don't need full sun but enjoy a good balance of sunlight and shade. Placing them in a spot with partial sun or filtered light would be ideal for their growth and health. It's important to protect them from intense, direct sunlight as it can harm their leaves. So, find a cozy spot with just the right amount of light for your string of dolphins!

 IS THE STRING OF DOLPHINS RARE?

The string of dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) is considered a relatively rare succulent. Its unique leaf shape resembling leaping dolphins with curved stems makes it a sought-after plant among succulent enthusiasts. However, availability may vary depending on your location and local nurseries. The right place to buy these succulents is the online medium. Search 'dolphin succulents near me.' 

Planet Desert is the best place to get the string of dolphin plants for sale online. Keep an eye out for it at specialty plant stores or online retailers that specialize in succulents.

IS THE STRING OF DOLPHINS THE SAME AS A STRING OF BANANAS?

The difference between a string of bananas and a string of dolphins is in the shape of their leaves. While both plants belong to the same Senecio genus and have trailing vines, the string of bananas has curved, banana-shaped leaves, while the string of dolphins has leaves that resemble leaping dolphins. It's fascinating how nature can create such unique and diverse plant forms!

IS THE STRING OF DOLPHINS INDOOR OR OUTDOOR?

A string of dolphins can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on your climate and preferences. If you live in a region with a mild climate in USDA zones 9-11, you can place your string of dolphins outdoors in a spot with partial sun or filtered light. If you prefer to keep it indoors, make sure to provide it with bright, indirect light near the window. Just remember to adjust watering and care accordingly based on its location.