LightString of Buttons prefers bright indirect light but…
WaterAllow the soil to dry completely before watering String of…
ToxicityToxic to pets
Mature sizeIts stems can create an eventual height…
String of Buttons is a trailing succulent with plump blue-green leaves arranged closely along cascading stems. The small, rounded leaves resemble stacked buttons and create a geometric texture. It works well in hanging containers or near a shelf edge where the stems can spread. This easy plant suits growers who can offer filtered light and let the soil dry completely. Its toxicity makes careful indoor placement necessary.
Care data checked 25 September 2026 · Dany · A-Z Plants
Light requirements
String of Buttons prefers bright indirect light but tolerates low light, within 50 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD. A PAR meter or app can measure the available level.
Placement: keep it 5 to 8 ft / 1.5 to 2.5 m from a north, south, west, or east-facing window.
Avoid an open view of the sky. Filter unavoidable direct sun with a sheer curtain.
Too much light: sudden strong exposure may scorch or bleach the leaves.
Too little light: stems stretch, spacing widens, and the compact button-like pattern becomes loose.
Watering
Allow the soil to dry completely before watering String of Buttons. Check moisture below the surface with a knitting needle or chopstick. Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.
Water the entire root ball until liquid exits the drainage holes.
Let all excess drain away before returning the container to a saucer or decorative planter.
Water considerably less in winter because the succulent is not actively growing.
Wet soil that lingers around the roots can cause rot and leaf drop. Excessive drought may leave the plump leaves wrinkled or crisp. Always grow it in a pot with drainage holes.
Soil
Use a specialty organic succulent potting mix that drains quickly and becomes dry between waterings. Dense, moisture-retentive soil raises the risk of root and stem rot.
DIY mix: blend 2 parts coir, 2 parts coarse sand, and 1 part pumice.
Pair the gritty mixture with a container that has open drainage holes.
Feeding
Apply an organic fertilizer formulated for succulents every 2 to 4 weeks from March to October. Follow the label strength for indoor succulents. Do not increase the dose to speed growth, and stop frequent feeding during the quieter winter season.
Temperature & humidity
String of Buttons grows best at 65 to 75 °F / 18 to 24 °C. Keep it away from cold drafts and strong sources of heat. Humidity from 40 to 50% is suitable. Average indoor air works well, and regular misting is unnecessary.
What to expect
String of Buttons grows at a moderate rate and reaches maturity in 2 to 3 years. Its stems can create an eventual height or trailing length of 1 to 2 ft / 30 to 60 cm. A mature planting may spread 2 to 3 ft / 60 to 90 cm.
Varieties & cultivars
C. perforata var. variegata: Green leaves have creamy white margins that brighten the stacked stems.
C. perforata f. monstrosa: Thicker, more pronounced leaves develop a noticeably bumpy surface.
C. perforata ‘Fallenship’: This compact cultivar has cascading stems packed tightly with rounded leaves.
C. perforata ‘Morgan’s Beauty’: Elongated, teardrop-shaped leaves develop a reddish tinge.
String of Buttons: questions
Is String of Buttons toxic to cats and dogs?
String of Buttons is toxic to people and pets, including cats and dogs. Keep its trailing stems where they cannot be bitten or pulled down. Remove dropped leaves promptly, and do…
How much light does String of Buttons need?
String of Buttons prefers bright indirect light but tolerates low light, within 50 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD. A PAR meter or app can measure the available level. - Placement: keep it 5 to 8 ft / 1.5 to 2.5 m from a north, south, west, or east-facing window. - Avoid an open view of the sky. Filter…
How often should I water String of Buttons?
Allow the soil to dry completely before watering String of Buttons. Check moisture below the surface with a knitting needle or chopstick. Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water. - Water the entire root ball until liquid exits the drainage holes. - Let all excess…
How big does String of Buttons get?
Mature size indoors: Its stems can create an eventual height….
