Senecio citriformis  (String of Tears)

Description

String of Tears - also known as Senecio citriformis - is an extremely unusual cascading succulent that boasts small, plump, teardrop-shaped leaves on slender, creeping stems. They are coated with a dusty waxy, grey green skin, which features thin, pale, transluscent striations which allow light to penetrate and assist in photo-synthesis, While the plant possesses extremely little standard leaf material, much of its structure is composed of water- storage tissue.

Coming from the sunny region of South Africa, the succulent grows in sunny places with good soil. String of Tears requires sufficient bright light, like being placed in the sunniest window where it is protected from the harsh afternoon sun. As String of Tears grows, its stem will extend in time to cascade down and that's the plant that can be planted in a hanging container, a high shelf, the corner of a coffee table or etcetera.

Slow growing and capable of handling drought, A String of Tears succulent can be another good choice for the beginner who aims for a more maintenance-free collection of plants. With its capacity to hold water within the leaves, the succulent handles sporadic water well, so a String of Tears is definitely one to consider if you're hoping for a hanging succulent with very little effort involved.

Key Features

• Tiny, teardrop shaped waxy leaves with subtle translucent striations. 
• Trailing/scrambling nature is ideal for a hanging basket or shelf display.
• Draught tolerant with minimal watering requirements once established.
• Low growing, will retain their trailing appearance nicely. 
• Prefer the sunny windowsill and a bright environment. 
• These are simple, hassle free, and are a lovely addition to any current succulent collection.
• Unique lemon-shaped leaves to set this trailing succulent apart from others. 
• Small when planted, you won’t have to struggle to position on a desk or narrow shelf until it begins to cascade.

Care at a Glance

Product Specifications

What's in the Box

• 1 x Senecio citriformis String of Tears live plant
• 1 x Pot (Bare-rooted/Pot: Optional)
• Potting mix
• Basic care guide

Important Notes

• Plants are living and there may be differences in size, colour and stem length as well as to what is pictured. 
• Handle carefully during the unpacking process. The leaves and trailing stems can be brittle and may break or dent under pressure. 
• Some leaves may appear to be shriveled or look like they are dying, the plants will often recover in one week when placed in good light with standard watering conditions.
• Avoid the bright afternoon sun for the first several days once your plant arrives to allow it to acclimatize. 
• As an indoor plant, the watering needs are reduced even further during the cooler winter months; inspect your soil prior to watering. 
• Due to this plant being toxic if ingested; keep out of reach of children and animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's making my String of Tears' leaves all wrinkly?

A: It's very likely the plant is thirst. Since String of Tears stores its water in its leaves, once the soil feels totally dry to the touch, give your plant a good drenching. They should perk back up within days. 

Q: How often should I water it?

A: Water it once every 14-21 days during spring and summer. Wait until the soil feels very dry to the touch before giving it another soak. Let the soil dry out for even longer in the winter.

Q: Is Senecio citriformis good as a houseplant?

A: This is a great houseplant if it has bright light throughout the day like by a sunny window. Plants in dim light get long stems and spacing of leaves isn't even. 

Q: Do I need to put my plant in direct sun? 

A: Senecio citriformis performs well in bright light but keep out of harsh midday sun where it may burn the leaves. Morning or bright indirect light should be great.

Q: What is the growth rate of this plant?

A: String of Tears grows at a slow to moderate rate. The trailing stems get longer incrementally each month and will not outgrow their spot in a hanger quickly.

Q: Is this plant suitable for homes with animals?

A: Unfortunately, Senecio citriformis is poisonous if ingested, and it should be located safely away from animals.