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Succulent VINE BOTH Placement Primary: Ornamental

String of Bananas

Senecio radicans

Identified By Marcs

The String of Bananas, scientifically known as Senecio radicans, is a popular trailing succulent native to South Africa, belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is widely celebrated for its unique, banana-shaped leaves that store water, giving the plant a whimsical and cascading appearance ideal for hanging baskets or elevated planters. As a resilient drought-tolerant plant, it thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and minimal watering, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced indoor gardeners who appreciate easy-care botanical decor.

Also known as: Banana Vine String of Fishhooks

Toxicity & Safety

Is String of Bananas toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

The String of Bananas plant is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to severe adverse clinical signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, and potential liver damage over time. It is highly recommended to keep this trailing succulent completely out of reach of curious household pets by using high shelves or securely hung baskets.

Is String of Bananas toxic to humans?

Yes, toxic to humans.

Ingesting any part of the String of Bananas plant can be toxic to humans, causing gastrointestinal distress, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The plant contains toxic compounds that make it unsafe for consumption by adults and children alike. Accidental ingestion should be treated seriously, and medical attention should be sought immediately if a child or individual consumes parts of the foliage.

Is String of Bananas safe during pregnancy?

Caution advised during pregnancy.

Due to the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids present within the foliage and stems of the String of Bananas, pregnant women should avoid handling the plant excessively without gloves or ingesting any portion of it. Systemic toxicity from the plant can potentially affect overall health and well-being, which poses unnecessary risks during pregnancy. Always exercise caution and wash your hands thoroughly after pruning or propagating this succulent.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 10 - 15 cm
Width 30 - 90 cm
Growth Rate Fast
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature 10°C - 27°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 8 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Partial shade
Soil pH 6 - 7.5
Watering Interval 10 - 20 days
Humidity 30.00% - 50.00%
USDA Zone 10a - 11b

Arid and Subtropical Climates

Climate: Thrives in warm, dry environments with low ambient humidity and plenty of bright natural light throughout the year.

Soils: Sandy Soil Loamy Soil Cactus Mix
Annual Rainfall: 200 - 600 mm

Native Regions

South Africa (ZA – Africa)

How to Care for String of Bananas

How should I handle watering instructions?

Allow the potting mix to dry completely between watering sessions. When watering, apply water thoroughly until it drains out from the bottom holes, but never let the pot sit in standing water to prevent root rot.

How should I handle sunlight requirements?

Provide bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours daily. A few hours of gentle morning direct sunlight is beneficial, but harsh afternoon rays can easily scorch the sensitive banana-shaped foliage.

How to Propagate String of Bananas

How to propagate String of Bananas by cutting?

To propagate the String of Bananas, snip a healthy stem cutting that is at least 10 centimeters long using sterilized scissors. Remove the lower leaves from the bottom few centimeters of the cutting to expose the nodes. Allow the cut end to callous over for a day or two in a dry, shaded area. Lay the cutting horizontally across a tray filled with damp succulent soil or push the nodes directly into the potting mix. Place the container in bright, indirect light and mist the soil lightly whenever it feels completely dry until new roots and shoots begin to emerge.

Common Diseases & Pests of String of Bananas

What is Root Rot and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Yellowing leaves, mushy and translucent stems, black or brown decaying roots, and an overall sudden decline in the plant's health due to excessive moisture.

Treatment:

Remove the plant from its container, cut away all affected and decaying roots using sterile shears, and repot into fresh, dry, well-draining succulent soil.

Prevention:

Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes, use a fast-draining gritty soil mix, and always allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.

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