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Plant Profiles / String of bananas
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
String of bananas
Curio radicans · Banana vine, fishhooks
Long trailing stems of curved, banana-shaped leaves. Faster and tougher than string of pearls.
Bright indirect lightLight
Every 1–2 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect light
ShadeFull sun
Some morning sun.
Water
Every 1–2 weeks
DryWet
Water when dry.
Humidity
Low to average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
8–32°C (46–90°F)
CoolWarm
Protect from frost.
Growth
Fast, trailing
SlowFast
Trails to 1 m+.
Soil
Cactus and succulent mix
LeanRich
Free-draining mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly in summer
RarelyOften
Diluted fertiliser.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Toxic to pets.
About this plant
From South Africa, string of bananas grows quickly and roots along its stems. It forgives the odd missed watering.
Best spots
Hanging baskets, high shelves and bright windows.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Curio radicans |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Plant type | Trailing succulent |
| Mature size | Trails 1 m+ |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Flowers | White, cinnamon-scented |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Repot
Propagate
Fertilise
Water less
RepotPropagateFertiliseWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Shrivelled leaves | Underwatering. |
| Rotting stems | Overwatering. |
| Leggy | More light. |
| Thin top | Pin cuttings into the pot. |
Common questions
Is it easier than string of pearls?
Yes.
Is it pet safe?
No.
How long does it trail?
Over a metre.
Does it flower?
Yes, with scented blooms.
