Variegated String of Pearls is the colourful form of Curio rowleyanus, featuring cascading strands of bead-like leaves marbled in green, cream and soft pink tones.

The pearls often display streaks or half-moon patterns, while the stems can blush pink in bright light. This variegated version is slightly slower growing and needs brighter conditions than the solid green form, but rewards with stunning colour and texture.

It’s a true statement trailing succulent, perfect for bright windows and hanging planters.

Key Features

• 🌿 Cream and green marbled pearls

• 🌿 Pink-tinged stems in strong light

• 🌿 Trailing, cascading growth

• 🌿 Drought tolerant

• 🌿 Slower growing than green variety

Care Guide

Light

Bright light is essential for variegation.

• Thrives in bright, indirect light

• Can tolerate gentle morning or late afternoon sun

• Avoid harsh midday sun

• Too little light causes fading and weak growth

Brighter light encourages stronger colour contrast and pink stems.

Watering

Water sparingly.

• Allow soil to dry almost completely between waterings

• Water thoroughly, then drain fully

• Reduce watering significantly in winter

Watch for:

• Shrivelled pearls = thirsty

• Soft or translucent pearls = overwatered

Variegated forms are slightly more sensitive to overwatering.

Humidity

Prefers average to low humidity.

• No misting required

• Ensure good airflow

• Avoid very humid environments

As a succulent, it prefers drier air compared to tropical houseplants.

Temperature

• Ideal: 18–24°C

• Avoid temperatures below 10–12°C

• Protect from cold draughts

Stable warmth supports steady growth.

Soil & Potting Mix

Use a very free-draining mix:

• Cactus or succulent compost

• Extra perlite or grit for drainage

• Terracotta pots are ideal

Excellent drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.

Feeding

Feed lightly during spring and summer:

• Cactus fertiliser every 4–6 weeks

• Do not feed during winter

Overfeeding may cause weak growth.

Growth Habit

• Trailing stems can reach 60cm+

• Slower growth than solid green form

• May produce small white, lightly scented flowers

Trim long strands to encourage fullness.

Propagation

Very easy to propagate:

1. Lay strands across moist soil and gently press nodes down

2. Or take cuttings and root directly in soil

3. Keep lightly moist until established

Roots typically form within a few weeks.

Common Problems

Loss of variegation

• Insufficient light

Mushy pearls

• Overwatering

Shrivelled pearls

• Underwatering

Sudden stem collapse

• Root rot

Styling Ideas

• Perfect for bright hanging baskets

• Ideal for high shelves

• Looks beautiful in neutral or pastel pots

• Pairs well with other trailing succulents

Its soft cream and pink tones make it especially attractive in bright, airy interiors.

Toxicity

Variegated String of Pearls is toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.