Senecio radicans

Common Names

String of Bananas, Banana Vine, Creeping Berry, String of Fishhooks, Fishhook Senecio, Fishhooks Senecio, Necklace Plant, String of Bananas Plant, Curio Radicans

Summary

String of Bananas is a trailing succulent native to southern Africa, forming long cascading stems with banana-shaped fleshy leaves that are glossy green and light-catching; rapid growth and a prostrate habit make it ideal for hanging baskets or cascading displays, with small white to off-white flowers that carry a cinnamon-like scent.

Cultivation emphasizes bright indirect light (tolerating some direct sun), well-draining cactus/succulent soil, and a soak-and-dry watering regime with soil drying completely between waterings; drought-tolerant and frost-tender, it is easily propagated from stem cuttings and commonly used in hanging baskets, containers, or ground covers in suitable climates; may be toxic if ingested.

Lifecycle

Perennial (often grown as an annual in colder climates).

Height

3-4 feet

Spread

2-4 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun; tolerates partial sun and partial shade, including partial shade at peak heat.

Soil Type

Well-draining cactus/succulent soil mix

Soil Drainage

Well-draining soil, preferably a cactus/succulent mix with perlite and/or sand to enhance drainage; avoid soggy, poorly drained conditions.

Soil pH

6.6-7.0

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Green (lime green to blue-green), sometimes with a bluish tinge in bright light.

Fall Foliage Color

Lime green to bright green, sometimes tinged with pink or red.

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering