String of Dolphins

Senecio peregrinus

Almanac Planting Co String of Dolphins Plant (Senecio peregrinus). Growing in a terra cotta pot with some cascading overhang from the side of the pot. There is a blurred forest in the background.

Overview

Uses: An evergreen, creeping, perennial, succulent vine.

Benefits: An extremely popular and attractive plant for use as a houseplant and in hanging baskets! May be used as an outdoor plant and groundcover in tropical climates. Tolerates infrequent watering! 

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 - 12

Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Life Cycle: Perennial 

Mature Height: 4"

Mature Width: 12" - 36" (Hanging or Creeping) 

Bloom Season: Summer (irregularly)

Summary

Senecio peregrinus—most commonly known as String-of-Dolphins, and sometimes referred to as The Dolphin Plant—is a low-growing perennial succulent vine that's best known for its lovely cascading growth habit, and foliage that resembles the shape of a dolphin! 

A hybrid of String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) and Candle Plant (Senecio articulatus), String of Dolphins is a low-maintenance plant that may be used as a sprawling, mat-forming groundcover in tropical climates, or as an indoor and patio plant in cooler climates. Its sprawling and hanging growth habits make it perfect for hanging baskets or when planted outside next to a wall or ledge. 

Although they're sometimes described as inconspicuous, String of Dolphins is known to irregularly produce beautiful, small, pompom shaped white flowers throughout spring and summer. The flowers often last for about a month, and have colorful stamens and a wonderful spicy cinnamon scent. 

Care

String of Dolphins Care

Senecio peregrinus is considered easy to care for and does not require lots of attention or maintenance.

It often does great when grown in either full or partial sun. Strong, direct sun; however, may burn and damage its delicate leaves. Too little sun will cause negative growth issues. We suggest attempting to place it somewhere where it will get strong, indirect sun; or morning sun that's paired with afternoon shade. 

Water regularly after planting until established, or in periods of drought. Do not overwater! Its ideal soil is semi-dry to semi-moist, rich, and well draining. Sandy and gravel filled soils are also a favorite. Avoid planting in areas that are known to hold water or flood. Allow soil to dry out between watering sessions. 

Fertilizations will accelerate growth and keep your plant well fed. We suggest using our slow release fertilizer, or something similar. Do not overfertilize! 

Size

Size of String of Dolphins Plant for Sale Online

The Senecio peregrinus that we sell online will ship in a greenhouse grade grow pot. Each plant will be appropriately sized for its pot. Please contact us with any specific questions.

Size of String of Dolphins Plant When Fully Grown

Senecio peregrinus typically grows to a height of 4" and a width (hanging or creeping) of 12" - 36". 

Additional Information

Common Names of Senecio peregrinus

  • String of Dolphins

  • The Dolphin Plant

Toxicity and Risks of String of Dolphins Plant

Senecio peregrinus is considered to be toxic to people and pets. 

Its ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, abdominal pain, skin irritation or lethargy. Contact with the plant's sap may cause skin irritation or rash. 

More severe reactions include liver failure and muscle convulsions. 

Almanac Planting Co String of Dolphins Plant (Senecio peregrinus). A close up of the light green, evergreen foliage that's shaped like a dolphin.

*This plant is a part of our Archived Plant Collection. Although no longer for sale on our online store, we keep pages like this on our site for the informational benefit of others.