LightString of Bananas needs bright indirect light at 150 to 250…
WaterAllow the potting mix to dry completely before watering…
ToxicityToxic to pets
Mature sizeIts stems reach 1 to 2 ft / 30 to 60 cm…
String of Bananas is a trailing succulent with glossy leaves shaped like tiny bananas. Its long tendrils cascade over shelves and hanging planters, creating a dense curtain of green growth. Small white or light pink flowers may appear in spring. The plant suits bright rooms and growers who prefer the soil to dry fully between waterings. Its toxicity requires placement beyond the reach of children and pets.
Care data checked 25 September 2026 · Dany · A-Z Plants
Light requirements
String of Bananas needs bright indirect light at 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD. A PAR meter or app can help confirm this range.
Placement: keep it 5 ft / 1.5 m from a south, west, or east-facing window.
Avoid giving the leaves a direct view of the sky. Filter unavoidable sun through a sheer curtain.
Too much light: strong direct rays may bleach or scorch the fleshy leaves.
Too little light: stems become sparse and stretched, with larger gaps between banana-shaped leaves.
Watering
Allow the potting mix to dry completely before watering String of Bananas. Check several depths with a knitting needle or chopstick rather than judging only the surface. Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.
Soak the root ball until water runs through the drainage holes.
Let the pot drain fully before replacing it in a saucer or decorative planter.
Water considerably less during winter because active growth has slowed.
Constantly damp soil can cause root and stem rot. If drought lasts too long, the succulent leaves may shrivel and develop crisp tissue. A pot with open drainage holes is essential.
Soil
String of Bananas needs a specialty organic potting mix formulated for succulents. The medium must dry quickly and should not compact around the fine roots.
DIY mix: combine 2 parts coir, 2 parts coarse sand, and 1 part pumice.
Use a container with drainage holes and avoid leaving water beneath the hanging pot.
Feeding
Apply an organic fertilizer formulated for succulents every 2 to 4 weeks from March to October. Use the package strength intended for indoor succulents. Do not overfeed String of Bananas or continue frequent applications through its slower winter period.
Temperature & humidity
Keep String of Bananas at 65 to 75 °F / 18 to 24 °C. Protect the succulent stems from cold drafts and sudden heat. Humidity between 40 and 50% is suitable. It does not need heavy misting and benefits from normal indoor airflow.
What to expect
String of Bananas grows at a moderate rate and usually matures in 2 to 3 years. Its stems reach 1 to 2 ft / 30 to 60 cm when trailing. The planted crown and hanging growth can occupy a spread of 12 to 18 in / 30 to 45 cm.
Varieties & cultivars
S. kraussiana ‘Aurea’: Small, bead-like leaves are bright green. This fast-growing trailer suits hanging baskets.
S. rowleyanus: Known as String of Pearls, it has round, bead-like leaves suited to hanging displays.
S. herreianus: Oval leaves distinguish this plant from String of Pearls and give rise to the name String of Beads.
S. macroglossus: Wax Ivy has ivy-like leaves and can trail or climb.
S. morganianum: Burro’s Tail or Donkey Tail produces overlapping, plump, blue-green leaves.
String of Bananas: questions
Is String of Bananas toxic to cats and dogs?
String of Bananas is toxic to people and pets, including cats and dogs. Do not allow its tempting hanging stems or fallen leaves to be chewed. Place the entire planter out of…
How much light does String of Bananas need?
String of Bananas needs bright indirect light at 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD. A PAR meter or app can help confirm this range. - Placement: keep it 5 ft / 1.5 m from a south, west, or east-facing window. - Avoid giving the leaves a direct view of the sky. Filter unavoidable sun through a sheer…
How often should I water String of Bananas?
Allow the potting mix to dry completely before watering String of Bananas. Check several depths with a knitting needle or chopstick rather than judging only the surface. Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water. - Soak the root ball until water runs through the…
How big does String of Bananas get?
Mature size indoors: Its stems reach 1 to 2 ft / 30 to 60 cm….
