The Crassula perforata, commonly known as String of Buttons, Necklace Vine, or Pagoda Plant, is a popular succulent. Native to South Africa, it features thick, triangular, or square-shaped leaves that spiral, creating a stacked, button-like effect along its stems. These leaves are typically gray-green and can develop rosy pink edges when exposed to sufficient light. Its trailing growth makes it a favored choice for hanging baskets, shelves, or as a low-spreading ground cover.
Caring for Your String of Buttons
Light Needs
String of Buttons thrives in bright, indirect sunlight with some direct sun exposure. An ideal indoor location is a south or west-facing window, providing several hours of sunlight daily. Insufficient light can lead to a loss of coloration and cause the plant to stretch or become leggy. Conversely, excessive direct sunlight, especially during hot summer days, can scorch the leaves, causing them to turn brown.
Watering Practices
Watering String of Buttons involves an infrequent but thorough “soak and dry” method. It is crucial to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, a common issue for succulents. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger 1-2 inches deep; if dry, it is time to water. During the warmer growing seasons of spring and summer, watering may be needed every two weeks, while in fall and winter, during dormancy, watering should be significantly reduced to about once a month.
Ideal Soil Mix
A well-draining soil mix is essential for String of Buttons to thrive and prevent waterlogged conditions. Commercial succulent or cactus potting mixes are suitable due to their quick drainage. You can also create your own mix by combining regular potting soil with amendments like perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage and aeration. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6 to 7.5).
Temperature and Humidity
String of Buttons prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 85°F (15°C and 29°C). It is not frost-tolerant; temperatures below 32°F (0°C) can cause damage. If grown outdoors in cold winter regions, bring it indoors. This succulent tolerates typical indoor humidity and thrives in dry air, so avoid high humidity to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing Tips
String of Buttons are not heavy feeders and grow well in poor, infertile soil. If fertilizing, do so sparingly during the active growing season in spring and summer, about once a month or every few weeks. Use a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength, or a specific succulent fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak or leggy growth and harm the plant.
Propagating String of Buttons
Propagating String of Buttons is straightforward, primarily done through stem cuttings. To begin, select a healthy stem and cut a 3-4 inch piece using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Remove the bottom leaves to expose a bare section of the stem where roots will develop.
After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for one to two days in a shaded area. This callusing process prevents rot when the cutting is planted. Once callused, plant the cutting into a small pot filled with a well-draining succulent soil mix. Water sparingly until new roots establish, which typically takes a few weeks.
Troubleshooting Common String of Buttons Problems
Overwatering is a frequent issue for String of Buttons, leading to mushy or yellowing leaves and potential root rot. If leaves feel soft or appear translucent, it indicates too much water. To remedy this, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.
Underwatering can cause the fleshy leaves to shrivel and become brittle. If the leaves lose their plumpness, the plant needs water. Provide a thorough watering, ensuring excess water drains from the pot.
Insufficient light often results in stretching or legginess, where the plant grows elongated stems with widely spaced leaves. Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage more compact growth. Conversely, brown or scorched leaves can signal too much direct sunlight, requiring a move to a shadier spot.
String of Buttons can attract mealybugs or aphids. Inspect the plant regularly, especially the undersides of leaves. If pests are present, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.