The Curio x peregrinus, commonly known as the String of Dolphins, is a highly sought-after trailing houseplant. Its distinctive foliage features plump, curved leaves that genuinely resemble a pod of leaping dolphins, lending it a whimsical aesthetic ideal for hanging baskets.
Yes, It Is a Succulent: Understanding Its Classification
The String of Dolphins is a succulent plant. This classification is based on the plant’s physiological adaptation to arid environments, specifically its ability to store water. Its characteristic dolphin-shaped leaves are thick and fleshy, serving as moisture reservoirs, which is the defining trait of all succulents.
This unique hybrid belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is one of the largest plant families, including daisies and sunflowers. The Curio x peregrinus is a cross between two other popular trailing succulents: the Curio rowleyanus (String of Pearls) and the Curio articulatus (Hot Dog Cactus).
Optimizing Light, Soil, and Water Needs
Proper watering is the most important factor for the health of a String of Dolphins, due to its succulent nature. The best approach is the “soak and dry” method, where the plant is watered thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, and then allowed to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering is the most common cause of plant demise, as perpetually damp soil leads to root rot.
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain its compact, dolphin-like shape. Placing it near a south or east-facing window that receives filtered light for several hours daily is generally ideal indoors. Insufficient light will cause the stems to stretch out, a condition called etiolation, making the foliage sparse and leggy.
Conversely, intense, direct midday sun, especially in summer, can scorch the delicate leaf tissue, causing permanent damage. To prevent root issues, the String of Dolphins requires a highly porous soil mix. A commercial succulent or cactus blend, often amended with extra perlite or coarse sand, ensures that excess moisture drains away rapidly from the roots.
Simple Propagation Techniques
Creating new plants from an existing String of Dolphins is straightforward and most effectively achieved using stem cuttings. A stem segment of about three to five inches, cut just below a leaf node, is typically sufficient for propagation.
Before planting, the cutting must be allowed to sit in a dry, shaded area for one to two days until the cut end forms a protective scab, known as callousing. This step seals the wound and prevents the cutting from absorbing too much water and rotting upon planting. The calloused cutting can then be placed into a well-draining soil mix to root, or placed in a jar of water until fine roots develop, after which it can be transferred to soil.