Curio radicans
Curio radicans (String of Bananas) Care Guide
Featured photocurio-radicans.jpgCurio radicans is the string of bananas, a South African succulent with curved banana-shaped leaves clustered along trailing stems. Previously placed in Senecio, it is closely related to string of pearls but easier to grow — the larger leaves store more water and forgive more imperfect conditions. It tolerates a wider range of light and watering than its pearl cousin.
Care facts at a glance
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Water when the mix is fully dry.
- Humidity
- 30–50 %
- Temperature
- 15–27 °C
- Soil
- Free-draining cactus or succulent mix.
- Toxicity
- Mildly toxic. Sap can irritate. (humans) · Toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA Senecio listing. (pets)
- Origin
- Southwestern Africa.
- Mature size
- Trailing stems to 60 to 90 cm long.
Overview
Curio radicans was previously Senecio radicans. The banana-shaped leaves give the plant its trade name; the species name radicans refers to its tendency to root where stems touch soil.
Care Priorities
- Full sun or very bright filtered light.
- Sharp drainage; less rot-prone than string of pearls but still vulnerable.
- Water deeply when fully dry.
- Faster grower than string of pearls — one of the easier hanging succulents.
Common Problems
Mushy strands are overwatering. Stretched stems with sparse leaves are low light. Rot at the soil line is the textbook failure.
Sources & further reading (3)
- encyclopedia — accessed 2026-04-28
- botanical-garden — accessed 2026-04-28
- toxicity-database — accessed 2026-04-28
Frequently asked questions
Easier than string of pearls?
Yes — much easier. The larger banana-shaped leaves store more water and the plant forgives more imperfect care.
Why are my bananas yellowing?
Yellow leaves are usually overwatering. Reduce frequency and the plant typically recovers.
Best display?
A hanging pot in full sun. The cascading banana-leaves drape attractively when given vertical clearance.
