Description String of Fishhooks Care Guide FAQ/Common Issues Senecio radicans, also called String Of Fishhooks, is a trailing succulent native to the dry, rocky regions of South Africa. It has adapted seamlessly to indoor life, growing well in the same bright, low-humidity conditions it evolved in. The foliage is slender, curved leaves in blue-green that resemble tiny fishhooks along each cascading vine. The waxy, cylindrical leaves store water efficiently, giving this fast-growing trailing plant exceptional drought tolerance. Stems trail freely and reach impressive lengths, creating a flowing effect in hanging baskets or from high shelves. Senecio radicans produces small flowers, though blooms are most reliably triggered by a drop in nighttime temperatures. The plant shows clearly when it needs water by gently wilting. Position it in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where the vines can trail downward. Move it outside in summer to a sheltered spot with bright indirect light, but shield it from heavy rain and bring it back indoors before nighttime temperatures drop below 50°F. Keep it away from cats, dogs, and small children, as the sap can cause skin and paw irritation and the plant should not be eaten. Rotate the pot regularly for even growth on all sides. String of Fishhooks grows well in bright indirect light or partial sun, away from intense south-facing windows that can scorch the foliage. Water it every 10-14 days in summer and every 3-4 weeks in winter, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Senecio radicans does best in a fast-draining cactus and succulent mix blended with extra perlite for improved drainage. It prefers temperatures between 60-80°F and should be kept above 50°F, as it cannot tolerate frost. Senecio radicans is a moderate to fast trailer that benefits from a balanced liquid fertilizer applied once monthly during the active growing season. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, tolerating minimum temperatures down to around 25-30°F only briefly and with protection. It grows outdoors year-round in California, Arizona, Texas, Florida, Hawaii, Nevada, and Louisiana. It also grows well in Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi, with parts of Oregon and coastal areas of North Carolina and Virginia supporting it during milder months. Q: How often should I water String of Fishhooks? A: Check soil moisture before watering; the top inch should feel dry to the touch. In winter, reduce watering frequency as growth slows and water needs drop. Q: Is this plant safe for pets and children? A: No. String of Fishhooks sap can cause skin and paw irritation, and the plant should not be eaten by cats, dogs, or small children. Q: What light conditions does Senecio radicans need? A: East or west-facing windows work well and avoid the intense afternoon heat of south-facing sun. If foliage turns pale or growth slows, move it closer to a light source. Q: How do I propagate this plant? A: Snip a healthy stem a few inches long, let the cut end callous for a day or two, then lay it on or press it lightly into moist succulent soil. Roots develop within a few weeks. Q: How fast does String Of Fishhooks grow? A: Under good light and warm temperatures, it develops long trailing stems relatively quickly. You may need to repot annually once established to accommodate new growth. Q: Can I move my plant outdoors for summer? A: Warm outdoor locations work well for String Of Fishhooks in summer, but choose a sheltered spot protected from heavy rain and strong wind. Bring it indoors when nighttime temperatures approach 50°F.
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