Introducing the top-notch hanging plant String of Dolphins, also known as Senecio peregrinus, a beautiful member of the Secenio genus! It is sometimes called a dolphin necklace, a dolphin plant, or flying dolphins.

The string of dolphins gets its name from the way its leaves grow in a cascading pattern, resembling a pod of leaping dolphins in mid-air.
With their ionic dolphin-shaped leaves and long hanging tendrils, they can grow up to 6 inches tall.
This succulent develops slender, trailing stems lined with fleshy, dolphin-shaped leaves that help the plant store water during dry periods.
The leaves are typically blue-green to bright green in color and maintain their unique shape throughout the year, making the plant attractive even when not in bloom.
When grown in hanging baskets or elevated planters, the vines can create a lush, cascading display that adds texture and visual interest to indoor and outdoor spaces.
In spring and summer, mature plants may produce clusters of delicate white flowers along their trailing stems.
These blooms often have a subtle, sweet fragrance that becomes more noticeable on warm days. The flowers provide a beautiful contrast to the plant's whimsical foliage and can add an extra layer of seasonal appeal.
Although the blooms are relatively small, they enhance the overall charm of the plant and make an already eye-catching succulent even more rewarding to grow.
Whether you choose to grow Senecio peregrinus in hanging pots, a decorative hanging basket alone, or let them trail down from a larger pot to a shelf, the string of dolphin plants is sure to add a touch of whimsy and charm to any space. It's a delightful plant that will capture the hearts of both plant enthusiasts and dolphin lovers alike!
When and How to Water Your String of Dolphins Plant
Unlike most succulents that can be difficult to water, this plant is relatively simple to care for. This dolphin succulent has water-storing leaves.
Water your plant at least 7 to 10 days, during growing season and drop to about once every 3 to 4 weeks, during the dormant season.
In the spring and summer, your dolphins' string may require more frequent watering. It's best to water it thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
In the fall and winter, it's important to reduce watering and allow your String of dolphins to rest. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it's important to avoid soggy soil or excess soil moisture.
To determine when it's time to water your string of dolphins, simply stick your finger into the soil up to your knuckle. If the soil feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. Be sure to water your succulent evenly, allowing the water to soak through the soil and drain out of the bottom of the pot. Remember, always use a terracotta potting medium that has adequate drainage holes to avoid any damage.
Light Requirements - Where to Place Your String of Dolphins Succulent

When growing indoors, place it in a pot of it in a sunny window near a north or south-facing window for at least 6 hours.
You can also use a sheer curtain or blinds to filter the light if it's too intense.
When growing outdoors, this plant loves bright, indirect light and morning sun.
This houseplant requires Full sun to partial shade sun exposure for almost 3-6 hours a day. When exposed to too much sun, your string of dolphin plants can easily become sunburned.
If you notice that your dolphin plant starts stretching or leaning toward the light, it's a sign that it needs more light. On the other hand, if the leaves start turning yellow or brown, they may be getting too much direct sunlight.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
The string of dolphins favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining soil mix, or ideally use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote new root growth that helps your succulent plants to thrive.
When it comes to fertilizing, you can feed it once a year with a balanced NPK fertilizer with a ratio of 5-10-5 to to support its growth.
You can reduce or even stop fertilizing altogether in the fall. This allows your dolphin plant to rest and prepare for healthy growth in the following season.
Remember, it's always better to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize, as too much fertilizer can cause harm to your soft Senecio peregrinus. So, stick to a regular fertilizing schedule during the growing season and adjust accordingly during the dormant season.
Hardiness Zones & More

In the United States, the string of dolphin succulent is mostly an indoor plant, but if you live in southern Florida or Hawaii, then you can cultivate it outdoors in USDA zones 10-11.
It thrives in the temperature between 60°F-80°F. As for humidity, it can adapt to both low and high-humidity environments.
However, it generally prefers moderate humidity levels around 40-60%. If the air becomes too dry, you can mist the leaves with water or use a humidifier to increase the humidity around the plant.
It's important to avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F, as these below-freezing temperatures can cause damage to the plant.
How to Grow Best Indoors
String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) is a popular trailing succulent admired for its playful dolphin-shaped leaves and cascading stems.
- Place your String of Dolphins near an east-south, or west-facing window where it can receive 4 to 6 hours of bright light each day.
- Plant it in a specialized succulent soil mix to help prevent excess moisture from collecting around the roots.
- Water thoroughly only when the soil has dried out completely, and reduce watering during the cooler winter months.
- Feed with a diluted NPK fertilizer once a month during spring and summer to support healthy growth.
- Maintain indoor temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, and protect the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F.
- Display the plant in a hanging basket or on a high shelf to showcase its trailing stems and keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Pro Tip
It's time to prune your plant when its vines begin to resemble overcooked spaghetti. Identify the nodes, which are the tiny lumps on the vines, and trim slightly above them. By doing this, the plant is encouraged to grow rather than just hang.
Wildlife – String of Dolphins Flowers Attract the Following Friendly Pollinators
The String of Dolphins flowers attract a variety of friendly pollinators, including bees, butterflies, ladybugs and other beneficial insects. These garden visitors help support pollination and contribute to a healthy outdoor ecosystem.
Butterflies
Bees
Hummingbirds
Lady Bugs
Multi Pollinators
Other Birds
According to ASPCA, the 'Senecio peregrinus' is considered mildly toxic to humans and pets. The plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy if ingested. For safety, keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and wear gloves when handling it if you have sensitive skin.
How to Propagate Your String of Dolphins Plant
To propagate your a string of dolphins plant you can easily do it through stem cuttings. Simply use a sharp knife to trim off a healthy stem, leave it callous for a few days, and then place it in well-draining soil. With proper care and attention, you can watch your string of dolphins flourish and create a stunning display of leaping dolphins in your own home.
Key Takeaways
- String of Dolphins is a highly sought-after trailing houseplant known for its unique dolphin-shaped leaves, making it one of the most popular succulents for indoor plant collections.
- Its cascading vines make it ideal for hanging baskets, wall planters, and elevated shelves, especially when placed near a bright window with plenty of indirect light.
- The distinctive dolphin shape of the leaves is most noticeable on young, healthy growth receiving plenty of bright light.
- The plant can continue producing new vines throughout the growing season, creating an increasingly full and cascading display over time.
- Its thick leaves store water, allowing it to withstand occasional missed waterings.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) is a delightful and unique succulent that is sure to capture your heart. With its trailing vines adorned with adorable dolphin-shaped leaves, it brings a sense of whimsy and charm to any space. This string of dolphins thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced plant lovers.
Be sure to add a Senecio peregrinus string of dolphins to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden with this stunning-looking plant.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Bloom Season | Spring, summer |
| Botanical Name | Senecio peregrinus |
| Common Name | Dolphin necklace, dolphin plant, flying dolphin |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Flower Color | White |
| Genus | Senecio |
| Growth Habit | Trailing, hanging |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 6 in. tall |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Perennial succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistant, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Special Features | Unique plant, easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mild toxic for pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Bloom Season | Spring, summer |
| Botanical Name | Senecio peregrinus |
| Common Name | Dolphin necklace, dolphin plant, flying dolphin |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Flower Color | White |
| Genus | Senecio |
| Growth Habit | Trailing, hanging |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 6 in. tall |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Perennial succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistant, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Special Features | Unique plant, easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mild toxic for pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |
- Description
- Key Plant Features
Introducing the top-notch hanging plant String of Dolphins, also known as Senecio peregrinus, a beautiful member of the Secenio genus! It is sometimes called a dolphin necklace, a dolphin plant, or flying dolphins.

The string of dolphins gets its name from the way its leaves grow in a cascading pattern, resembling a pod of leaping dolphins in mid-air.
With their ionic dolphin-shaped leaves and long hanging tendrils, they can grow up to 6 inches tall.
This succulent develops slender, trailing stems lined with fleshy, dolphin-shaped leaves that help the plant store water during dry periods.
The leaves are typically blue-green to bright green in color and maintain their unique shape throughout the year, making the plant attractive even when not in bloom.
When grown in hanging baskets or elevated planters, the vines can create a lush, cascading display that adds texture and visual interest to indoor and outdoor spaces.
In spring and summer, mature plants may produce clusters of delicate white flowers along their trailing stems.
These blooms often have a subtle, sweet fragrance that becomes more noticeable on warm days. The flowers provide a beautiful contrast to the plant's whimsical foliage and can add an extra layer of seasonal appeal.
Although the blooms are relatively small, they enhance the overall charm of the plant and make an already eye-catching succulent even more rewarding to grow.
Whether you choose to grow Senecio peregrinus in hanging pots, a decorative hanging basket alone, or let them trail down from a larger pot to a shelf, the string of dolphin plants is sure to add a touch of whimsy and charm to any space. It's a delightful plant that will capture the hearts of both plant enthusiasts and dolphin lovers alike!
When and How to Water Your String of Dolphins Plant
Unlike most succulents that can be difficult to water, this plant is relatively simple to care for. This dolphin succulent has water-storing leaves.
Water your plant at least 7 to 10 days, during growing season and drop to about once every 3 to 4 weeks, during the dormant season.
In the spring and summer, your dolphins' string may require more frequent watering. It's best to water it thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
In the fall and winter, it's important to reduce watering and allow your String of dolphins to rest. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it's important to avoid soggy soil or excess soil moisture.
To determine when it's time to water your string of dolphins, simply stick your finger into the soil up to your knuckle. If the soil feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. Be sure to water your succulent evenly, allowing the water to soak through the soil and drain out of the bottom of the pot. Remember, always use a terracotta potting medium that has adequate drainage holes to avoid any damage.
Light Requirements - Where to Place Your String of Dolphins Succulent

When growing indoors, place it in a pot of it in a sunny window near a north or south-facing window for at least 6 hours.
You can also use a sheer curtain or blinds to filter the light if it's too intense.
When growing outdoors, this plant loves bright, indirect light and morning sun.
This houseplant requires Full sun to partial shade sun exposure for almost 3-6 hours a day. When exposed to too much sun, your string of dolphin plants can easily become sunburned.
If you notice that your dolphin plant starts stretching or leaning toward the light, it's a sign that it needs more light. On the other hand, if the leaves start turning yellow or brown, they may be getting too much direct sunlight.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
The string of dolphins favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining soil mix, or ideally use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote new root growth that helps your succulent plants to thrive.
When it comes to fertilizing, you can feed it once a year with a balanced NPK fertilizer with a ratio of 5-10-5 to to support its growth.
You can reduce or even stop fertilizing altogether in the fall. This allows your dolphin plant to rest and prepare for healthy growth in the following season.
Remember, it's always better to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize, as too much fertilizer can cause harm to your soft Senecio peregrinus. So, stick to a regular fertilizing schedule during the growing season and adjust accordingly during the dormant season.
Hardiness Zones & More

In the United States, the string of dolphin succulent is mostly an indoor plant, but if you live in southern Florida or Hawaii, then you can cultivate it outdoors in USDA zones 10-11.
It thrives in the temperature between 60°F-80°F. As for humidity, it can adapt to both low and high-humidity environments.
However, it generally prefers moderate humidity levels around 40-60%. If the air becomes too dry, you can mist the leaves with water or use a humidifier to increase the humidity around the plant.
It's important to avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F, as these below-freezing temperatures can cause damage to the plant.
How to Grow Best Indoors
String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) is a popular trailing succulent admired for its playful dolphin-shaped leaves and cascading stems.
- Place your String of Dolphins near an east-south, or west-facing window where it can receive 4 to 6 hours of bright light each day.
- Plant it in a specialized succulent soil mix to help prevent excess moisture from collecting around the roots.
- Water thoroughly only when the soil has dried out completely, and reduce watering during the cooler winter months.
- Feed with a diluted NPK fertilizer once a month during spring and summer to support healthy growth.
- Maintain indoor temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, and protect the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F.
- Display the plant in a hanging basket or on a high shelf to showcase its trailing stems and keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Pro Tip
It's time to prune your plant when its vines begin to resemble overcooked spaghetti. Identify the nodes, which are the tiny lumps on the vines, and trim slightly above them. By doing this, the plant is encouraged to grow rather than just hang.
Wildlife – String of Dolphins Flowers Attract the Following Friendly Pollinators
The String of Dolphins flowers attract a variety of friendly pollinators, including bees, butterflies, ladybugs and other beneficial insects. These garden visitors help support pollination and contribute to a healthy outdoor ecosystem.
Butterflies
Bees
Hummingbirds
Lady Bugs
Multi Pollinators
Other Birds
According to ASPCA, the 'Senecio peregrinus' is considered mildly toxic to humans and pets. The plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy if ingested. For safety, keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and wear gloves when handling it if you have sensitive skin.
How to Propagate Your String of Dolphins Plant
To propagate your a string of dolphins plant you can easily do it through stem cuttings. Simply use a sharp knife to trim off a healthy stem, leave it callous for a few days, and then place it in well-draining soil. With proper care and attention, you can watch your string of dolphins flourish and create a stunning display of leaping dolphins in your own home.
Key Takeaways
- String of Dolphins is a highly sought-after trailing houseplant known for its unique dolphin-shaped leaves, making it one of the most popular succulents for indoor plant collections.
- Its cascading vines make it ideal for hanging baskets, wall planters, and elevated shelves, especially when placed near a bright window with plenty of indirect light.
- The distinctive dolphin shape of the leaves is most noticeable on young, healthy growth receiving plenty of bright light.
- The plant can continue producing new vines throughout the growing season, creating an increasingly full and cascading display over time.
- Its thick leaves store water, allowing it to withstand occasional missed waterings.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) is a delightful and unique succulent that is sure to capture your heart. With its trailing vines adorned with adorable dolphin-shaped leaves, it brings a sense of whimsy and charm to any space. This string of dolphins thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced plant lovers.
Be sure to add a Senecio peregrinus string of dolphins to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden with this stunning-looking plant.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Bloom Season | Spring, summer |
| Botanical Name | Senecio peregrinus |
| Common Name | Dolphin necklace, dolphin plant, flying dolphin |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Flower Color | White |
| Genus | Senecio |
| Growth Habit | Trailing, hanging |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 6 in. tall |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Perennial succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistant, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Special Features | Unique plant, easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mild toxic for pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Bloom Season | Spring, summer |
| Botanical Name | Senecio peregrinus |
| Common Name | Dolphin necklace, dolphin plant, flying dolphin |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Flower Color | White |
| Genus | Senecio |
| Growth Habit | Trailing, hanging |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 6 in. tall |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Perennial succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistant, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Special Features | Unique plant, easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mild toxic for pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |