Introducing the string of tears, known as Senecio citriformis, which is a captivating succulent plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is known for its unique hanging/trailing growth habit and delicate, teardrop-shaped leaves that cascade down like a beautiful green waterfall. Native to South Africa, itmen is also known as Curio citriformis. 

This String of pearl succulent has slender, trailing stems that look great in a hanging pot, growing up to 3 feet long. The leaves are small, plump, and elongated, resembling tiny teardrops or beads, that store water. They have a vibrant green color with translucent windows that allow light to penetrate, giving them a unique appearance. 

The string of tears flowers produces small, daisy-like blooms from late summer to early winter. These flowers can vary in color from pale yellow to white and add an extra touch of beauty to the plant. 

The string of tears propagation can be easily done through stem cuttings. Simply take a healthy stem cutting, remove the lower leaves, and allow it to be callous for a few days. Then, place the cutting in well-draining soil, mist it lightly, and provide indirect light. With time and proper Senecio care, the cutting will develop roots and establish itself as a new plant. 

Watering Needs 

Like other succulents, the String of Tears prefers minimal watering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, but don't let it become bone dry. A good rule of thumb is to water your Senecio plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot or fungal infection. 

In the spring and summer, during the growing season, your string of tears prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. However, as the weather cools down in fall and winter, it reduces the watering frequency. This string of tears succulent is quite drought-tolerant, so it's better to underwater than overwater it. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of underwatering with succulents.   

Observing the plant's leaves can also give you an indication of its watering needs. If the leaves start to appear shriveled or wrinkled, it's a sign that the plant needs more water. On the other hand, if the leaves become mushy or translucent, it could be a sign of excessive watering. 

Light Requirements 

When growing indoors, this lovely succulent thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a window where it can receive plenty of bright, filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as it can burn its delicate leaves. If you notice the leaves stretching or leaning toward the light source, it's a sign that the plant needs bright sunlight. You can also rotate the pot from time to time to ensure even light distribution. 

If you're thinking of moving your String of Tears plant outdoors. Just keep in mind that it is native to South Africa, where it enjoys warm and sunny conditions. So, choose a spot that receives partial to full sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day. Morning or late afternoon sun is usually ideal, as it's less intense than the midday sun. If you live in a particularly hot climate, it's a good idea to provide some partial shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burns. 

Remember, when transitioning your succulent from indoors to outdoors, do it gradually to avoid shocking the plant. Start by placing it in a partial shade outdoors for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the exposure to sunlight over a couple of weeks. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The string of pearls plant prefers sandy, well-drained soil, as excess moisture can promote root and stem rot. For growing Senecio string of tears indoors, it is essential to use a terra-cotta pot container with at least one drainage hole at the bottom.  

Planet Desert specializes in succulents and has specialized succulent potting soil that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your succulents thrive. As an okay alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. 

When it comes to fertilizing, the String of Tears doesn't require a lot of extra nutrients. During the active growing season, which is typically spring, you can feed it with a diluted NPK succulent. Follow the instructions for the correct dilution ratio and frequency of application. Remember, it's always better to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize, as excessive nutrients can harm your Senecio plant. 

Hardiness Zones & More 

When grown indoors, the string of tears can adapt well to a wide range of temperatures. It generally prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it's best to avoid extreme cold or frost, as it can damage the plant. As for humidity, this succulent can tolerate average indoor humidity levels, so no need to worry too much about that. 

If you're thinking of growing the String of Tears outdoors, it is typically suited for USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11. It prefers warmer climates and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. If you live in a colder region, you may want to keep it as an indoor plant or provide protection during the winter months, such as bringing your string of tears plant indoors or using a frost cloth to shield it from frost. 

In terms of temperature, the String of Tears withstand temperatures between 60°F and 80°F outdoors as well. It can handle slightly higher temperatures, but it's best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burns. As for humidity, it can tolerate a variety of humidity levels, but it generally prefers drier conditions rather than high humidity. 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, the String of Tears (Senecio citriformis) is a captivating succulent with its delicate, tear-shaped leaves that cascade down like a string of beads. Native to South Africa, this plant thrives in arid conditions and features slender, trailing stems and vibrant green leaves with translucent windows. While it may produce small, daisy-like flowers, it is primarily valued for its stunning foliage. String of tears care is relatively easy, as it requires bright indirect light, great drainage, and regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is important to mist the plant occasionally to maintain humidity levels and prevent the leaves from drying out. Give it a try and enjoy the beauty and intrigue this unique string of tears brings to your home or garden!