The Ultimate String of Bananas Care Guide: Grow a Lush, Trailing Succulent

String of Bananas: A Unique Hanging Succulent for Your Home

Discover how to grow and care for String of Bananas (Curio radicans) with Ashley Scott’s 10 years of expertise. Learn about propagation, toxicity, and solving common issues!

Hi there! I’m Ashley Scott, a passionate gardener with over a decade of experience nurturing succulents and houseplants. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about the String of Bananas (Curio radicans), one of my favorite trailing plants. Whether you’re a new plant parent or a seasoned green thumb, this guide will help you master its care, avoid pitfalls, and even propagate your own cascading beauty!

What is a String of Bananas?

A person holding a bunch of green String of Bananas houseplants.

The String of Bananas, scientifically known as Curio radicans (formerly Senecio radicans), is a quirky succulent with curved, banana-shaped leaves. Native to South Africa, it thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Its vines can stretch several feet long, making it perfect for hanging baskets or high shelves.

Fun Fact: It’s often confused with the String of Dolphins (flat, dolphin-shaped leaves) and String of Beans (plump, bean-like foliage). The key difference? Shape and texture!


String of Bananas Plant Care: My Top Tips

After years of trial and error, here’s my foolproof care routine:

1. Light: Bright but Indirect

These plants adore 4–6 hours of bright, filtered sunlight daily. Too much direct sun scorches leaves (I learned this the hard way!), while low light causes leggy growth. East or west-facing windows are ideal.

2. Watering: Less is More

Overwatering is the #1 killer! Let the soil dry completely between waterings. In summer, I water mine every 2–3 weeks; in winter, monthly. Pro tip: Use a moisture meter or the “taco test”—if leaves bend easily, it’s thirsty!

3. Soil & Potting

A gritty, well-draining mix is essential. I blend cactus soil with perlite and coarse sand (2:1:1 ratio). Always choose pots with drainage holes—terracotta works wonders for preventing root rot.

4. Temperature & Humidity

Keep temperatures between 60–80°F and avoid drafts. Average household humidity is fine, but mist occasionally in dry climates.

5. Fertilizing

Feed monthly in spring/summer with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer (I use 5-5-5). Skip feeding in fall/winter.


How to Propagate String of Bananas (In Soil or Water!)

Propagation is simple and rewarding. Here’s my go-to method:

  1. Snip a Healthy Stem: Cut a 4–6 inch vine with plump leaves.
  2. Let It Callus: Dry the cut end for 1–2 days to prevent rot.
  3. Rooting Options:
    • In Water: Place the stem in a jar, submerging only the node. Change water weekly. Roots appear in 2–3 weeks.
    • In Soil: Lay the stem on moist soil, pressing nodes lightly into the mix. Keep slightly damp.

Once rooted, transplant into a small pot. For a fuller look, plant multiple cuttings together!


Is String of Bananas Toxic to Cats?

Yes, it’s mildly toxic. According to the ASPCACurio radicans contains saponins that can cause vomiting or drooling in pets. Keep it out of reach, or opt for pet-safe alternatives like String of Hearts or Spider Plants.


Troubleshooting Common Problems

“Why is My String of Bananas Dying?”

  • Yellow, Mushy Leaves: Overwatering! Let soil dry and trim rotten roots.
  • Dry, Crispy Leaves: Underwatering or too much sun.
  • Sparse Growth: Needs more light or fertilizer.

How to Make It Fuller

Pinch back leggy stems to encourage bushiness. I also loop longer vines back into the soil to root—this creates a lush, cascading effect!


Where to Buy String of Bananas Online

I’ve had great luck with Etsy and Mountain Crest Gardens for healthy cuttings. Local nurseries often carry them too—just check the leaves for pests first!


String of Bananas Benefits

Beyond its charm, this plant is low-maintenance and air-purifying. Studies by NASA suggest succulents can remove toxins like formaldehyde from indoor air!


FAQs

How Much Sun Does String of Bananas Need?

Bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh afternoon sun.

What’s Similar to String of Bananas?

Try String of DolphinsString of Pearls, or Ruby Necklace Plant (pink-tinged foliage).


Final Thoughts

The String of Bananas is a joyful, forgiving plant that adds whimsy to any space. With the right care, you’ll enjoy its cascading vines for years! For more tips, check out my guides on succulent care and pet-safe plants.

Got questions? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help!

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