The Curio peregrinus, commonly known as the String of Dolphins plant, is a unique and sought-after succulent. Its distinctive foliage consists of plump, curved leaves that resemble small dolphins leaping from the water, creating a whimsical, cascading display. This visual appeal makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or high shelves where its trailing stems can be appreciated. Understanding its specific needs is necessary for maintaining its compact, dolphin-like shape and overall health.
Finding the Right Light and Environment
The String of Dolphins thrives best in bright, indirect light for most of the day. Providing adequate light is the most important factor for maintaining the plant’s characteristic dolphin shape, as insufficient light will cause the stems to stretch out, a process known as etiolation. An ideal placement indoors is near an east-facing window, which offers gentle morning sun, or a few feet away from a south- or west-facing window where the light is strong but diffused.
The plant must be protected from harsh, direct afternoon sunlight, which can easily scorch its fleshy leaves. Burnt leaves will develop brown or yellow patches and will not recover. The String of Dolphins prefers typical indoor temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be moved indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Average household humidity is usually sufficient. The plant prefers low humidity and good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal issues and moisture accumulation around the leaves and soil surface.
Watering Schedules and Soil Composition
Overwatering is the most common cause of failure for the String of Dolphins, making a precise watering schedule and the right soil composition necessary. The plant stores water in its plump leaves and is highly drought-tolerant. The best practice is the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly drench the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
During the active growth period of spring and summer, watering may be needed every one to two weeks, depending on the environment. Frequency must be dramatically reduced during the plant’s semi-dormant period in fall and winter, often requiring water only once a month or less. A general indicator that the plant needs water is when the leaves begin to look slightly dull and deflated. Conversely, leaves that appear mushy, yellow, or transparent are a clear sign of overwatering and potential root rot.
The soil must be extremely well-draining to prevent water retention around the roots. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is the best foundation. To further improve drainage, this mix should be amended with materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Always use a pot that has at least one adequate drainage hole to allow excess water to escape completely.
Feeding and Seasonal Adjustments
The String of Dolphins requires minimal feeding to thrive. Over-fertilization can be detrimental, potentially leading to the loss of its signature leaf shape. Apply fertilizer only during the spring and summer months when the plant is actively growing and can utilize the nutrients.
A balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer is the correct choice. This fertilizer should be diluted to half or even quarter strength of the manufacturer’s recommendation before application to prevent chemical burn. Feeding once per month during the growing season is sufficient for healthy growth. Fertilizer application must be stopped entirely in the fall and winter, as the plant enters dormancy and cannot process the extra nutrients.
Propagation and Solving Common Issues
Propagating the String of Dolphins is easily achieved using stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem from the mother plant using a clean, sharp tool. The cutting needs to be set aside in a dry, shaded place for one to two days to allow the cut end to form a protective scab, a process called callousing.
Once calloused, the cutting can be laid directly on top of fresh, well-draining succulent soil or inserted slightly into the mix. The soil should then be kept lightly moist, not saturated, until new roots have developed, which typically takes a few weeks.
Common Issues
The two most common problems encountered are directly related to improper watering and light. Shriveled or deflated leaves that feel dry are an indication of underwatering, while yellow, mushy leaves signal overwatering and potential root rot. Leggy growth, where the stems are long and the leaves are sparse and flat, is a direct result of insufficient light, requiring the plant to be moved to a brighter location.