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String of Bananas

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Senecio radicans

KNOWN AS: String of Bananas, String of Fishhooks, Banana Vine

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Southern Africa | Arid

DESCRIPTION: The String of Bananas is a unique and charming trailing succulent known for its long, cascading stems and plump, banana-shaped leaves. This plant is a favorite for hanging planters and shelves, where its whimsical "bananas" can be beautifully displayed.

String of Bananas Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

The String of Bananas thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate a few hours of direct morning sunlight, but it must be protected from harsh afternoon sun, which can easily burn the leaves.

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Watering

Quick Tip: Allow soil to completely dry out before watering.

The String of Bananas is extremely sensitive to overwatering, which is the most common cause of death for this plant. Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. It is always better to underwater this succulent than to overwater.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 65º - 80º

The String of Bananas prefers warm, stable temperatures. The ideal range is between 65-80°F. It is sensitive to cold and should be kept away from temperatures below 50°F.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 30 - 50%; Low/Moderate Humidity

As a desert succulent, the String of Bananas prefers a low to moderate humidity environment. The average humidity of most homes is perfect for this plant, and you do not need to take any special steps to increase it.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
The String of Bananas is very easy to propagate by stem cuttings. Take a cutting of a stem that is a few inches long and has several "bananas" on it. Place the cutting on top of moist, well-draining soil, or gently press it into the soil. The roots will grow from the leaf nodes, so ensure the nodes are touching the soil.
Toxicity
The String of Bananas is toxic to humans and pets. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. It is important to keep the String of Bananas out of reach of children and pets.
Repotting
The String of Bananas is a slow grower and prefers to be a bit pot-bound. Repotting is only necessary every few years, or when the plant has completely outgrown its container. Select a new pot that is only slightly larger and has drainage holes. Be very gentle when repotting, as the stems are delicate and can easily break. Use fresh, well-draining soil.
Pruning
Pruning your String of Bananas is a great way to maintain its shape and health. Trim away any dead or leggy stems. You can also snip off stems to encourage a fuller, bushier plant. Use clean, sharp shears to make a cut. The trimmed stems can be used for propagation.
Fertilizer
String of Bananas do not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is ideal. Fertilize once a month during the spring and summer growing season. Do not fertilize during the fall and winter.
Soil
The right soil is crucial for a healthy String of Bananas. The plant requires a very well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A good mix is cactus or succulent potting mix amended with extra perlite or coarse sand. Always use a pot with a drainage hole to ensure excess water can escape.

Hanging Heights

String of Bananas Lighting Requirements: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

Chart showing recommended hanging heights for Soltech Aspect and popular plants for each range.

Aspect Hanging Heights - String of Bananas

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Soltech's Recommendation -

24" to 36"

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VIEW ASPECT GROW GUIDE

Vita Hanging Heights - String of Bananas

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Vita : 24" to 36"

60º Wide Beam Vita : 12" to 24"

-

VIEW VITA GROW GUIDE

Highland Hanging Heights - String of Bananas

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Highland : 30" to 42"

60º Wide Beam Highland : 18" to 30"

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VIEW HIGHLAND GROW GUIDE

Grove Hanging Heights - String of Bananas

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Soltech's Recommendation:

  • Not Recommended

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VIEW GROVE GROW GUIDE

Lighting guide for plants with Soltech Aura and potted plants on a neutral background

Aura Light Distances - String of Bananas

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Soltech's Recommendation:

  • 0" to 8"

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VIEW AURA GROW GUIDE

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