String of Watermelon: How to Grow & Care for Senecio herreianus

The String of Watermelon (Senecio herreianus), also called *Curio herreanus*, is a unique trailing succulent that produces oval, striped leaves resembling miniature watermelons. Closely related to String of Pearls, this South African native is a stunning addition to hanging baskets, succulent arrangements, or indoor plant shelves.

Its succulent, bead-like leaves grow along thin stems that can cascade over a metre in length under ideal conditions. The characteristic dark green stripes give it its “watermelon” name and make it a standout foliage feature. The plant may also produce small, cinnamon-scented white or mauve flowers, typically during the warmer months when exposed to adequate sunlight.

This species is part of the *Curio* genus (formerly *Senecio*), which also includes String of Pearls (*Curio rowleyanus*) and String of Bananas (*Curio radicans*). Compared to its relatives, the string of watermelon has slightly larger, more egg-shaped leaves with defined green striping, making it visually distinct in mixed succulent displays.

Australian plant lovers often keep this plant indoors where filtered sunlight ensures good colour without leaf scorching. It’s also a reliable option for patios, verandahs, or protected outdoor spots in warmer zones like Brisbane, Sydney, or Perth. Its compact root system suits small pots, and it thrives when slightly root-bound.

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String of Watermelon Care Guide

Caring for the string of watermelon plant is relatively straightforward. Like most trailing succulents, it prefers well-drained soil, dry conditions between waterings, and bright indirect light. Here’s a complete guide to keeping your *Senecio herreianus* healthy year-round:

Light: Bright, filtered light is best. Outdoors, a covered patio or dappled shade is ideal. Indoors, place near a north- or east-facing window. Avoid intense midday sun which can bleach or scorch the leaves.
Watering: Allow the soil to dry completely between watering. During summer, water every 10–14 days. In winter, reduce to once a month or less. Overwatering is the main cause of root rot and plant collapse.
Soil: Use a gritty succulent mix that drains fast. You can make your own by mixing standard potting soil with coarse sand, perlite, and pumice in equal parts.
Temperature: This plant enjoys warm conditions but can tolerate cool nights down to 5 °C. Avoid frost exposure. In colder zones, move the plant indoors or use a greenhouse during winter.
Humidity: Prefers low humidity. Keep away from overly humid bathrooms or kitchens unless airflow is strong.
Fertilising: Apply a diluted succulent fertiliser during the active growing season (spring–summer). Over-fertilising leads to stretched, pale growth. Use only half-strength of a balanced formula once a month.

Routine maintenance includes removing shrivelled or dead leaves, rotating the pot to encourage even growth, and checking for pests such as mealybugs and fungus gnats. If leaves become overly plump or translucent, this is a sign of overwatering.

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How to Propagate String of Watermelon + Common Questions

Propagating *Senecio herreianus* is easy and rewarding, especially during the warmer months. It can be done using stem cuttings, which root readily in soil or water.

Steps for Propagation:

Using clean scissors, cut a healthy 10–15cm stem just below a node (where the leaf meets the stem).
Let the cutting callous over for 1–2 days in a dry, shaded spot to prevent rot.
Place the cutting directly into moist succulent soil, pressing the lower nodes into the surface.
Keep lightly misted (not soaked) and warm until roots form—usually 2–4 weeks.

For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar of clean water with only the bottom nodes submerged. Once roots form, transplant into soil.

Answering Common Questions

How do you care for a string of watermelon? Give it bright indirect light, water sparingly, and plant it in free-draining soil. Rotate the plant for even growth and prune lightly to control legginess.
How do you propagate string of watermelon? Take stem cuttings with a few nodes, let them callous, and place directly into soil or water. Rooting usually takes 2–3 weeks in warm conditions.
Why are the leaves falling off my plant? This is often due to overwatering, root rot, or lack of sunlight. Reduce watering and move to a brighter spot with better airflow.
Is string of watermelon safe for pets? Like other *Curio* species, it may cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

For best results, feed your string of watermelon monthly during spring and summer with a half-strength solution of CompleteGrow’s All Purpose Liquid Fertiliser (NPK 20-20-20). Apply only to moist soil and avoid leaf contact to prevent burn.