The Crassula perforata, commonly known as String of Buttons, Necklace Vine, or Pagoda Plant, is a popular succulent. It is cherished for its distinctive appearance, featuring stacked, triangular leaves that often display reddish edges. This plant is a favorite among gardeners due to its easy care requirements.
Understanding the String of Buttons Plant
The Crassula perforata is a succulent native to South Africa. Its common names, like String of Buttons or Necklace Vine, reflect its stacked, button-like leaves that spiral around upright, branching stems. These gray-green leaves can develop a rosy pink hue when exposed to sufficient light. While it can produce small, star-shaped pale yellow or white flowers in spring, these blooms are often considered insignificant for indoor growers.
Essential Care Guide
Light Requirements
The String of Buttons plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight indoors. Placing it near a south- or west-facing window where it receives several hours of bright, filtered light is ideal. Too much direct sun, especially during the hottest parts of the day, can scorch the leaves, leading to brown spots. Conversely, insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and become “leggy,” losing its compact, stacked appearance.
Watering Practices
The String of Buttons prefers a “soak and dry” watering method. Water the plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, characterized by mushy stems and yellowing leaves. During cooler months, the plant’s growth slows, necessitating a significant reduction in watering frequency.
Ideal Soil Mix
A well-draining soil mix is important for the String of Buttons plant to prevent water retention around the roots. A commercial succulent or cactus mix works well, or you can create your own by combining regular potting soil with amendments like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. This ensures quick drainage and helps avert root rot. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH between 6 and 7.5.
Temperature and Humidity Needs
The String of Buttons plant prefers average room temperatures, ranging from 65-75°F (18-24°C). While it can tolerate slightly cooler winter temperatures, protect it from frost or temperatures below 32°F (0°C), as extreme cold can cause damage. This succulent is accustomed to dry air and does well in typical indoor humidity levels, so additional misting is not required.
Fertilizing Your Plant
The String of Buttons plant does not require frequent fertilization, as it is adapted to growing in poor, infertile soil. If you choose to fertilize, apply a diluted balanced succulent fertilizer once a month during the active growing season in spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to weak growth or even damage the plant. Repotting annually can also provide sufficient nutrients without additional fertilizer.
Propagating Your Plant
Propagating the String of Buttons plant is straightforward, most commonly achieved by taking healthy stem cuttings approximately 3-4 inches long with a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Remove the leaves from the bottom inch or two to expose the stem. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days before planting to prevent rot. Once calloused, plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining succulent soil and water lightly. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which regular watering can begin.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Insufficient Light
Leggy growth or stretching indicates insufficient light exposure. Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight to help it regain its compact form.
Overwatering and Root Rot
If leaves turn mushy or yellow, especially if the stem feels soft, overwatering and potential root rot are likely causes. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and ensure proper drainage to remedy this.
Sun Scorch
Scorched or brown spots on the leaves suggest too much direct sun exposure. Relocate the plant to a spot with filtered light or provide shade during peak sunlight hours to prevent further damage.
Pests
The String of Buttons can occasionally attract common succulent pests like mealybugs or aphids. Manage these by gently wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or applying a diluted neem oil solution.