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Succulent VINE INDOOR Placement Primary: Other

String of Dolphins

Senecio peregrinus

Identified By Marcs

The String of Dolphins is a delightful and visually striking succulent native to South Africa, scientifically known as Senecio peregrinus. It is a natural hybrid between Senecio rowleyanus (string of pearls) and Senecio articulatus (hot dog cactus). The plant gets its common name from its unique, plump leaves that remarkably resemble small dolphins leaping through the air. As a trailing succulent, it is exceptionally popular for hanging baskets, bright windowsills, and elevated shelves where its cascading vines can be fully appreciated. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and requires minimal watering, making it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced indoor gardeners who appreciate quirky and unusual botanical specimens.

Also known as: Dolphin Plant Flying Dolphins Senecio 'Dolphin Necklace'

Toxicity & Safety

Is String of Dolphins toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

The String of Dolphins plant contains toxic compounds known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are harmful to domestic animals such as cats and dogs. Ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to significant clinical signs including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, and loss of appetite. If you suspect that your pet has chewed on or swallowed parts of this succulent, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately for professional guidance and medical treatment.

Is String of Dolphins toxic to humans?

Yes, toxic to humans.

Like many members of the Asteraceae family and specifically the Senecio genus, the String of Dolphins is toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains harmful alkaloids that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and liver damage over time if consumed in large quantities. It should be kept well out of reach of young children and toddlers who might be attracted by the whimsical shape of the dolphin-like leaves.

Is String of Dolphins safe during pregnancy?

Caution advised during pregnancy.

Due to the presence of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids within the tissues of the String of Dolphins, handling or ingesting the plant during pregnancy can pose potential health risks. While skin contact is generally safe unless sap enters an open wound, accidental ingestion can introduce toxins that may adversely affect maternal health and fetal development. Pregnant women should exercise caution, wear gloves when pruning or repropagating, and avoid any internal consumption of this plant entirely.

Growth & Dimensions

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

Ideal Environment

Temperature 10°C - 27°C
Sunlight Hours 5 - 8 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Partial shade
Soil pH 6 - 7.5
Watering Interval 14 - 21 days
Humidity 30.00% - 50.00%
USDA Zone 10a - 11b

Arid and Subtropical Indoor Environments

Climate: Thrives in warm, dry indoor climates with low relative humidity and plenty of natural ambient light throughout the daytime hours.

Soils: Sandy loam Cactus mix Perlite-rich potting soil
Annual Rainfall: 100 - 500 mm

Native Regions

South Africa (ZA – Africa)

How to Care for String of Dolphins

How should I handle watering your string of dolphins?

Allow the potting mix to dry out completely between watering sessions. When watering, apply water thoroughly until it drains out from the bottom drainage holes of the pot. Never let the plant sit in standing water, as this will quickly cause root rot and kill the delicate trailing stems.

How should I handle providing optimal sunlight?

Place your String of Dolphins in a location where it receives bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours every day. A south or west-facing window with a sheer curtain is ideal. Insufficient light can cause the dolphin leaves to stretch out and lose their distinctive curved shape.

How to Propagate String of Dolphins

How to propagate String of Dolphins by cutting?

To propagate your String of Dolphins, select a healthy vine stem that is at least ten centimeters long. Use a pair of clean, sterilized shears to snip the cutting just below a leaf node. Remove the lower dolphins from the bottom few centimeters of the stem. Allow the cut end to callous over for a day in a dry, shaded spot. Lay the cutting horizontally across a tray of moist succulent soil, or push the bare node directly into the medium. Place the container in bright, indirect light and mist the soil lightly whenever it dries out until new roots and shoots begin to emerge.

Common Diseases & Pests of String of Dolphins

What is Root Rot and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Stems become mushy, translucent, and discolored near the soil line. The leaves may turn yellow, drop off suddenly, and the overall plant shows signs of rapid decline despite moist soil conditions.

Treatment:

Remove the plant from its pot, gently wash away the infected soil, and use sterilized scissors to cut away all mushy, rotted roots. Repot the healthy remaining portions into fresh, dry, fast-draining succulent soil and withhold water for a week.

Prevention:

Always use pots with drainage holes, plant in a well-aerated succulent mix, and ensure the soil dries out completely between watering sessions to prevent fungal growth.

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