A string of bananas houseplant is an easy-to-grow succulent that can be hung on the wall, or placed in a decorative pot. These plants are beautiful and come with their own string-like leaves attached.
The string of bananas plant care is relatively simple, but there are some things you should know before taking one home!
What is a String of Bananas Houseplant?
The string of bananas plant (scientific name: Senecio radicans) is a succulent that is part of the daisy family.
These plants are native to South Africa but can be found in other warm climates around the world. String of bananas plants have long, thick leaves that trail down from the stem like a string of pearls.
The leaves will reach up to 12 inches in length and are covered with small bumps or tubercles.
How do I Grow a String of Bananas Houseplant?
String of bananas houseplants can be grown from cuttings or seeds. If you want to propagate your own string of bananas plant, simply take a cutting from an existing plant and place it in water until it roots.
When the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it into soil. string of bananas plants can also be grown from seeds, but they may take a while to germinate.
Growing a String of Bananas
Size
A string of bananas plant can reach up to 12 inches in length, but they will typically trail down much longer.
Light
String of bananas plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can be placed in a sunny window, but make sure to move them if they start to get too hot.
Watering
This succulent plant should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as succulents do not like wet feet.
Soil
String of bananas plants prefer a well-drained soil mix that is high in organic matter. You can either create your own mix or purchase a pre-made succulent soil blend from your local garden center.
Uses
Senecio radicans make a beautiful addition to any room in your home. They can also be hung from the ceiling or wall using their long leaves.
Growth Rate
String of bananas plants are relatively slow-growing, but will produce new shoots from the base.
Fertilizer
These plants do not require any special fertilizer for optimal health. You can use a general purpose plant food at half strength during the growing season (spring and summer). Watering your string of bananas with liquid fertilizer once per month is also beneficial to their growth cycle.
Exposure
String of bananas plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can be placed in a sunny window, but make sure to move them if they start to get too hot.
Temperature
This succulent is a tropical plant and thrives in warm environments. They should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pests and Diseases
String of bananas succulents are generally pest-free but may be susceptible to mealybugs or spider mites under certain conditions. If your plant appears to be affected by pests or diseases, treat it with insecticidal soap or miticide as needed.
Soil
String of bananas plants prefer a well-drained soil mix that is high in organic matter. You can either create your own mix or purchase a pre-made succulent soil blend from your local garden center.
Propagation
These plants can be propagated by taking cuttings or growing from seeds. If you want to propagate your own string of bananas plant, simply take a cutting from an existing plant and place it in water until it roots.
When the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it into the soil. String of bananas plants can also be grown from seeds, but they may take a while to germinate.
Flowers
String of bananas plants are not known for their flowers, but they may produce small purple or white blooms.
Common Problems
String of bananas succulents are generally pest-free, but may be susceptible to mealybugs or spider mites under certain conditions.
The plants also do best when exposed to bright indirect light throughout the day every day (at least 12 hours). They will grow poorly if exposed to too much shade during early morning and late afternoon sunlight each day.
Potting Up or Moving Along?
If you’re looking to propagate string of banana houseplants, simply take cuttings in spring or summer.
When repotting string of banana succulents, make sure that they fit comfortably in their new pot without overcrowding them too much.
Pot up whenever necessary until winter comes around. String of bananas plants are easy to care for and can be kept in the same pot for many years.
However, if you want to move your string of bananas plant to a new location, just be sure to take into account its light and water requirements.
Placing Your String of Bananas Outside During Summer Months
If you live in a chilly region, your String Of Bananas will benefit greatly from spending some time in the great outdoors during the summer. Everything I’ve said thus far is true, with the exception of three things:
Make sure it doesn’t receive a lot of direct sunshine, or it’ll wilt in no time.
If you have a lot of rain throughout the summer months, consider protecting yours. A covered patio or a screened porch would be perfect. If a String Of Bananas gets too wet and does not dry out, it may decay and the stems and bananas (the leaves) will become mushy.
When you take your String Of Bananas inside during the cold months, give it a good washing to remove hitchhiking pests and/or their eggs.
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about growing a string of bananas houseplant. Be sure to keep these tips in mind when caring for your succulent and enjoy watching it grow!