How to Grow String of Dolphins
Wikimedia Commons
String of Dolphins
Senecio jacobsenii
succulentString of Dolphins is a trailing succulent with distinctive curved, dolphin-shaped leaves that grow along slender stems. It is a popular ornamental houseplant valued for its unique leaf morphology and graceful, cascading growth habit. This tender perennial is native to South Africa and requires warm, bright conditions to thrive.
When should you plant String of Dolphins in your zone?
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Example String of Dolphins timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant String of Dolphins
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest String of Dolphins
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11; elsewhere grown as a houseplant or in containers brought indoors during cold months
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Get my String of Dolphins timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation
2-3 weeksBare stem cuttings develop callous at the base and initial root formation begins.
Allow cut ends to air-dry for 2-3 days before planting. Keep soil barely moist until roots establish (2-3 weeks).
Establishment
3-4 weeksYoung plants develop roots and new leaf growth becomes visible along the stems.
Gradually introduce brighter light. Maintain minimal watering; let soil dry between waterings. Keep temperature between 60-75°F.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsStems elongate and produce numerous dolphin-shaped leaves in tight clusters along the length.
Ensure bright indirect light for compact growth. Water deeply but infrequently. Turn pot regularly for even growth.
Cascading/Mature
OngoingStems trail gracefully, creating the characteristic cascading effect with dense leaf coverage.
Maintain bright conditions. Water sparingly. Pinch back stems occasionally to encourage bushier growth if desired.
Flowering
2-4 weeksSmall white, daisy-like flowers appear in clusters at stem tips in late winter or early spring.
Flowering indicates plant is healthy and well-established. No special care needed; blooms are a bonus.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab on affected areas
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Increase humidity; mist leaves lightly; use neem oil or miticide if severe
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Remove manually with alcohol-soaked swab; apply horticultural oil spray
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Reduce watering frequency; allow soil surface to dry; use yellow sticky traps
Uses
Indoor air purification
HouseholdString of Dolphins, like other succulents, helps purify indoor air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, particularly during photosynthesis in bright light. [source]
Hanging basket & terrarium display
CraftThe graceful trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging planters, macramé hangers, and mixed succulent terrariums. Its unique dolphin-shaped leaves serve as a striking focal point in modern interior design. [source]
Non-toxic pet-friendly plant
WildlifeString of Dolphins is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe ornamental choice for homes with pets. It poses no risk if nibbled, though pets may be deterred by its waxy texture. [source]
Low-maintenance houseplant
HouseholdIdeal for busy plant lovers or beginners, String of Dolphins requires minimal watering, no fertilizer application needed, and tolerates a wide range of indoor temperatures and humidity levels. [source]
Ornamental food gardening
CulinaryWhile not commonly eaten, String of Dolphins is sometimes included in ornamental edible gardens. Some growers cultivate it alongside other succulents for visual interest in culinary landscape designs. [source]
Harvest Tips
String of Dolphins is ornamental rather than harvested for food or material. Propagate by taking 2-3 inch stem cuttings in spring or summer. Allow cuttings to air-dry 2-3 days, then insert into dry succulent soil. Harvest mature, full stems for propagation when plant is 1+ year old and well-established.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The dolphin-like shape of each leaf is created by the plant's curved, smooth leaf surface—a unique characteristic among Senecio species that gives it its popular common name.
- 🌱 String of Dolphins is a relatively rare succulent compared to String of Pearls, making it a prized collector's plant among succulent enthusiasts.
- 🌱 The plant flowers in winter or early spring, which is unusual for many houseplants and indicates the plant's natural South African growing season.
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