Lou's Leaf

Meet Your New Favourite Houseplant

Houseplants have a special way of bringing life into our homes, and the String of Dolphins is no exception. This charming succulent, with its playful, dolphin-shaped leaves, is sure to make a splash in your plant collection. Let’s dive into the delightful world of the String of Dolphins and uncover what makes this quirky plant so captivating.

The Origins of the Dolphins

The String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) is a hybrid created from two other succulents: the String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) and the Candle Plant (Senecio articulatus). Imagine those two plants meeting at a botanical mixer, hitting it off, and giving us the whimsical String of Dolphins. Native to South Africa, this succulent has made its way into homes worldwide, where it delights plant lovers with its unique foliage. The leaves, resembling tiny dolphins leaping through the air, add a touch of aquatic fun to any indoor garden.

Water Preferences: Just a Sip, Please

When it comes to watering, the String of Dolphins prefers a more hands-off approach. Think of it as a low-maintenance friend who’s always up for a chat but doesn’t need constant attention. Overwatering is the plant equivalent of being a helicopter parent, and the String of Dolphins is not here for it. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the growing season, which spans from spring to early autumn, a good soak every couple of weeks should suffice. In the dormant winter months, it needs even less – maybe just a little sip now and then to keep it happy.

Soil Preferences: Keep It Light and Airy

String of Dolphins thrives in well-draining soil, which helps prevent the dreaded root rot. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal, as these blends are specifically designed to offer excellent drainage. If you’re a DIY type, you can mix your own soil using potting soil, perlite, and a bit of coarse sand. The key is to keep it light and airy, much like the plant itself. Imagine the soil is a comfy hammock for your dolphin-shaped leaves – supportive but breathable.

Light Preferences: Bright, Indirect Sunlight

The String of Dolphins has a bit of a Goldilocks complex when it comes to light – it likes it just right. Bright, indirect sunlight is its sweet spot. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch, while too little light can make them stretch out and lose their charming dolphin shape. A spot near a west or east-facing window is usually perfect. If your home’s natural light situation is less than ideal, a grow light can help keep your dolphins looking their best.

Bringing It All Together

Caring for the String of Dolphins is all about balance – not too much water, light, or fuss. In return, this plant offers a whimsical, aquatic touch to your home décor, and it’s sure to spark joy and conversation among guests. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a newbie looking to add a fun piece to your collection, the String of Dolphins is an excellent choice. So, go ahead, dive into the world of this delightful succulent, and let those little dolphin leaves bring a splash of happiness to your home!