String of Bananas
Curio radicans
String of Bananas
About this plant
Curio radicans, commonly known as String of Bananas, is a popular trailing succulent with banana-shaped leaves. It is often grown in hanging baskets or as a decorative indoor plant. Its unique leaf shape and trailing habit make it a charming addition to homes and gardens.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Curio
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Higher classification
- Order Asterales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa
- Distribution
- Native to South Africa; widely cultivated worldwide as a houseplant.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining succulent or cactus mix
Watering. Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
Curio radicans is a tough succulent that thrives with minimal care. It prefers bright light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so water sparingly and let the soil dry out between waterings. It generally requires little maintenance and is suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- winter
Trailing stems with banana-shaped succulent leaves; small white fragrant flowers in winter.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Mildly toxic if ingested; keep away from children and pets to avoid stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Curio radicans may cause mild skin irritation in some people if touched, especially those sensitive to plant sap. It produces little airborne pollen, so it is unlikely to cause pollen allergies. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Insufficient light may cause leggy growth. Pests like mealybugs can occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive trailing foliage and ease of care.
Notes
Prune occasionally to maintain shape and encourage fuller growth. Repot every 2-3 years or when roots outgrow the pot. Sensitive to frost; protect from cold temperatures below 5°C.