The pea pod succulent (Curio rowleyanus), also known as String of Pearls, String of Beads, and Rosary Vine, is a vining succulent. Its unique appearance features small, spherical, pea-shaped leaves that grow along trailing stems, creating a cascade of green “pearls.” This aesthetic quality makes it popular for hanging baskets or containers, where its long stems gracefully spill over. Originating from the arid regions of East Africa, these plants have adapted their rounded leaves to store water, making them drought tolerant.
Pea Pod Succulent Care
Light
Pea pod succulents flourish in bright, indirect light. An ideal placement is near an east or west-facing window, providing ample light without the intensity of direct midday sun. While they can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, prolonged exposure to intense, direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, leading to brown spots or shriveling. Conversely, insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and become “leggy,” with elongated stems. If natural light is limited, particularly during winter, supplementing with a grow light can provide the necessary illumination.
Watering
Proper watering is important for the pea pod succulent, as it is susceptible to root rot from overwatering. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. The spherical leaves store water, allowing the plant to tolerate drier conditions. Overwatering can lead to mushy, soft, or translucent pearls, while underwatering causes the pearls to shrivel, wrinkle, or flatten.
Watering frequency depends on environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and pot material. In warmer months (spring and summer), water every one to two weeks, or when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. During the dormant winter months, reduce watering significantly, to about once every three to four weeks or even monthly.
Soil
The pea pod succulent requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal for quick drainage. Regular potting soil is unsuitable due to its tendency to retain too much moisture. To enhance drainage, add amendments such as perlite, pumice, or coarse sand.
The plant has a shallow root system, so a shallow, wide pot with drainage holes is suitable. Terracotta or unglazed ceramic pots are beneficial as they are porous and wick away excess moisture. Ensuring proper drainage is important for the plant’s health and longevity.
Temperature and Humidity
Pea pod succulents prefer temperatures above 70°F (21°C) during their active growing season. They are not tolerant of frost, and temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage. If grown outdoors in regions with cold winters, bring the plant indoors before temperatures drop.
Regarding humidity, average household humidity levels are sufficient for these plants. They prefer low humidity environments. High humidity is not necessary and can contribute to fungal diseases. Avoid placing them in overly humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens without proper ventilation.
Fertilizing
Pea pod succulents are light feeders. During the active growing season in spring and summer, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied. Dilute the fertilizer to about half or quarter strength to prevent nutrient burn. Fertilizing every few weeks or once a month during this period is sufficient.
Avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter months when the plant enters a dormant period, as it will not utilize nutrients. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient imbalances, stunted growth, or root burn.
Propagating Pea Pod Succulents
Propagating pea pod succulents is a straightforward process; stem cuttings are the most common and effective method. The best time for propagation is during the plant’s active growing season, spring and summer. Select healthy stems and use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to take 4-6 inch cuttings. Remove any pearls from the lower 1-2 inches of the stem.
After taking cuttings, allow them to callus by drying in a shaded area for one to two days. This step prevents rot.
Soil Propagation
For soil propagation, prepare a pot with well-draining succulent soil, then:
Insert the calloused end of the cuttings into the soil, ensuring several nodes are buried.
Alternatively, lay cuttings horizontally on the soil surface, ensuring stems make contact.
Keep the soil lightly moist, but not soggy, and place the pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light.
Roots develop within three to five weeks.
Water propagation is also effective. After taking cuttings and removing lower pearls, place the bare stem ends into a glass of water, keeping the pearls above the waterline. Roots will appear within a few weeks, and the cuttings can then be transplanted into soil. Propagating leggy stems also encourages bushier growth on the parent plant.
Common Problems and Solutions
Pea pod succulents can experience several common issues, signaling an imbalance in their care. Shriveling or wrinkled pearls are frequently caused by underwatering. If the pearls feel dry and shriveled, a thorough watering will revive them. However, soft, mushy, or translucent pearls, often accompanied by yellowing stems or odor, are signs of overwatering and root rot. In such cases, remove the plant from its pot, inspect roots, trim away diseased roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems and widely spaced pearls, primarily results from insufficient light. Moving the plant to brighter, indirect light encourages more compact, fuller growth. Pruning leggy stems promotes bushier development, and cuttings can be used for propagation. Yellowing leaves can point to overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or pest infestations. Addressing watering issues and ensuring proper drainage are the first steps.
Pests like mealybugs and spider mites may affect pea pod succulents, causing weakened growth or leaf drop. Regularly inspecting the plant and treating infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil mitigates damage. Pearls falling off the stems may indicate extreme underwatering, overwatering, or exposure to drafts. Adjusting watering practices and ensuring a stable environment away from harsh winds or temperature fluctuations helps prevent this.