String of Dolphin or Dolphin plant, scientifically referred to as Senecio Peregrinus, is a beautiful plant that adds color to your living space. String of dolphins are so called because of the shape of their leaves, that looks like a pod of little jumping dolphins and during its bloom scents like cinnamon. Though, this flower is lovely to own and attractive to sight, it is also demanding to cater for in terms of attention and time to be at it best glory. For some reasons their varieties are rare to find. This article seeks to provide adequate information to help you keep your rare and succulent plant in top health and growth.
What they are like
“String of Dolphins” plants aren’t the only type of strings that there is, they are some variations of strings such as string of bananas, hearts, turtles, fish hooks, nickels, Pearls etc. These Strings all have succulents display pendant (downward) stems and fleshy green leaves and are excellent for indoor and outdoor hanging displays. They’re also useful in vertical gardens and wall pockets.
String of dolphins size
A string of dolphins usually grow up to 3 ft long and 6 inches tall, which makes it look even more admirable shooting out of a hanging basket or sprawling over a bookshelve etc.
How to Care For String Of Dolphins
1. Light
Avoid exposure to excessive or direct sunlight. They don’t do well when exposed to heat. Ensure that wherever the are placed indoors or outdoor of your home, there should be sufficient form of shade to filter them from direct sunlight all day. This do not mean that they shouldn’t get any sun at all, they should be exposed to at least 6 hours of morning sunlight per day. You may also put them under a T-5 fluorescent or LED Grow Light if needed during winter.You can see more about How to use grow light for your indoor succulents.
2. Ideal Temperature
The ideal temperature for String of Dolphins is about 72 degrees Fahrenheit. They thrive best in cooler temperatures and zones, and can withstand temperature as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit during winter. In the summer months or during their growing season, it is ideal for them to have around 72 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure that the temperature around them does not drop below 40° Fahrenheit it is advisable to plant them in a container where they can easily be transferred inside.
3. Watering
String of Dolphins should be watered at least once a week, during their growing season by planting them in a container that has drainage holes in the bottom or a well draining soil. To water – soak up their container with water and allow it drain out, but water once a month during winter seasons. Also, ensure that their container is just a little bigger than their size, because they thrive better in a little crowded condition. Signs of poorly watered string of dolphins are pale-colored leaves so watch out for these.
4. Fertilizing Needs
String of Dolphins does not exactly require fertilizers, except for only once or twice a year at the beginning of spring and when they start to bloom.
How To Make String Of Dolphins Bloom?
Once a String of Dolphins matures, small clusters of dainty and white flowers with cinnamon-like fragrance along this succulent vine may develop during the spring to early summer months. The flowers of String of Dolphins are dainty and white and form tightly compacted puffballs.
To encourage spring of dolphins bloom reduce plants temperature to about 59°Fahrenheit, and allow the soil to dry out completely in between thorough irrigation.
Providing 2 to 3 hours of off-peak direct sunlight with little fertilization from late autumn to early spring to ensure a good dormancy. Keeping this succulent slightly root-bound.cold water.
Is String Of Dolphins Toxic to Pets?
Yes, unfortunately this, lovely scenting succulent plant is toxic to cats, dogs, etc. Therefore, ensure that your pets do not come in contact with these plants. Place them at strategic locations where they are denied access to the plants.
Symptoms of pet poisoning by string of dolphins may include: Abdominal pain, drooling, skin irritation, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, etc.
