Succulent, String of Bananas

Succulent, String of Bananas (Senecio radicans)

String of Bananas is a fast-growing, trailing succulent with glossy, banana-shaped leaves that spill elegantly from hanging baskets and containers. Native to the dry regions of southern Africa, it’s closely related to String of Pearls but grows more vigorously and is slightly easier to care for—making it a great choice for beginner succulent enthusiasts. Its cascading vines and playful leaf shape make it a standout in indoor succulent collections, while in warm climates, it can also be grown outdoors as a ground cover or trailing element in xeriscapes and rock gardens.

Key Characteristics

• Unique Leaf Shape and Vining Habit
  The curved, glossy green leaves resemble tiny bananas, giving this plant its name. It forms long, trailing vines up to 3 feet long, making it ideal for hanging baskets, tall pots, or vertical garden installations.

• Drought-Tolerant and Low Maintenance
  Like other succulents, String of Bananas stores water in its leaves and thrives on minimal irrigation. It's perfect for water-wise gardens, container designs, and indoor gardeners who want a striking plant with easy care.

• Sweetly Scented Flowers for Pollinators
  In ideal conditions, this plant blooms from May through July, producing small, white to pale lavender flowers with a sweet, cinnamon-like fragrance. The flowers form on upright stalks and can attract small pollinators when grown outdoors.

• Faster Growing and More Forgiving than String of Pearls
  String of Bananas is more tolerant of lower light and inconsistent watering than its cousin, making it a better option for busy gardeners or lower-light indoor spaces. It also roots easily from cuttings.

• Versatile for Indoors and Warm Climate Landscapes
  In zones 9–11, String of Bananas can be used outdoors as a trailing ground cover, tucked into rock crevices, or draped over walls and containers. Indoors, it thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Product Details

• Native Range: Southern Africa
• Plant Life Cycle: Evergreen perennial succulent
• Sun Requirements: Bright indirect light to full sun
• Soil Requirements: Dry to medium-dry, sandy or cactus mix, well-drained
• Mature Height: Trailing up to 3 feet
• Bloom Time: May–July
• Bloom Color: White to pale lavender, cinnamon-scented
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11 (Grow indoors or as annual in cooler zones)

String of Bananas is a whimsical, fast-growing succulent perfect for cascading displays and drought-tolerant gardens. Whether in a sunny window or a dry landscape, it brings movement, texture, and charm to any setting.