15 - 20cm Senecio Hallianus in Hanging Pot 14cm Pot House Plant

Senecio hallianus, commonly known as String of Bananas, is a fast-growing trailing succulent from South Africa, belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae). It gets its name from its distinctive, banana-shaped leaves, which grow along slender, cascading vines. These thick, curved leaves store water and have a slightly translucent window that aids in photosynthesis. Thanks to its whimsical appearance and forgiving nature, this plant is a favourite for hanging baskets and shelf displays. It also produces small, cinnamon-scented white flowers, especially when given bright conditions and a brief dry period.

🌞 Light Requirements

• Ideal: Bright, indirect light or a few hours of direct morning sun

• Tolerates: Full sun (outdoors) once acclimated

• Avoid: Low light — leads to stretching and sparse foliage

🪟 Perfect near a sunny windowsill or in a bright conservatory

💧 Watering

• Watering Schedule: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings

• Humidity: Prefers dry air; does not need extra humidity

• Watering Tips:

  • Water sparingly—this plant is drought tolerant

  • Reduce significantly in winter

  • Bottom watering is ideal to avoid stem rot

🚱 Overwatering is the number one killer of String of Bananas

🌱 Soil & Potting

• Soil Type: Gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix

• Custom Mix: Combine potting soil with sand, pumice, or perlite

• Pot Type: Terracotta pots with drainage are best for airflow and moisture control

🌵 A dry, aerated root zone mimics its natural environment

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal Temperature: 20–27°C

• Minimum: ~10°C; protect from frost

• Humidity: Prefers low to moderate humidity

🔥 Best grown indoors in the UK unless in a warm, protected outdoor area during summer

🌸 Fertilising

• When: During the active growing season (spring and summer)

• How Often: Every 4–6 weeks

• Type: Diluted liquid cactus or succulent fertiliser

• Avoid: Fertilising in winter or overfeeding, which can cause leggy growth

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Trim to maintain shape or control length; cuttings can be propagated

• Re-potting: Every 2–3 years or when roots become crowded

• Cleaning: Shake gently to remove dust; avoid wiping fragile stems

✂️ Trimmings root easily, so keep cuttings to grow new plants

🪲 Pests & Problems

• Common Pests: Mealybugs, aphids, spider mites

• Watch For:

  • Soft, mushy stems (overwatering)

  • Stretched, leggy vines (insufficient light)

• Treatments: Neem oil, insecticidal soap, or cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol

🔁 Propagation

• Method: Stem cuttings

• Steps:

  • Cut a healthy vine and remove lower “bananas”

  • Allow the cutting to callous for 1–2 days

  • Place on top of moist cactus mix or root in water

• Conditions: Bright light and warmth promote faster rooting

🪴 Great plant to share—easy and quick to multiply

🧡 Fun Facts & Tips

• It gets its "banana" name from the shape of its leaves, which resemble tiny green bananas

• Flowers have a faint cinnamon scent and may appear in late winter or spring

• Responds well to stress—some light drying out and bright light may even encourage blooming