Senecio Citriformis "String of Tears"
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Disclosure →- Native Habitat
- Senecio citriformis is native to South Africa.
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Water
- Requires moderate watering.
- Sunlight
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Soil
- Well-draining soil is ideal.
Why it is called Senecio citriformis?
Senecio citriformis gets its name from the Latin word "citriformis," which means lemon-shaped, referring to the shape of its leaves.
The Appearance of Senecio citriformis
Leaves
The succulent leaves of Senecio citriformis have a unique lemon-shaped appearance. This scrambling plant features waxy, veined, spindle-shaped leaves arranged perpendicularly. The overall outline resembles that of a lemon. It is closely related and visually similar to Curio herreanus. The plant has soft roots that do not penetrate deeply into the soil. Variegated varieties exhibit a mix of light and dark green leaves in the case of String of Tears.
Flowers
Senecio citriformis produces small clusters of yellow flowers. The plant's flowers are trumpet-shaped, white, and emit a fragrance reminiscent of cinnamon.
How to Care for Senecio citriformis
Light
Requires bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering
Water Senecio citriformis moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
During the growing season, water regularly every few weeks, ensuring thorough drenching and complete drainage. If leaves fall off, cease watering until new growth begins.
Reduce water in winter, avoiding high atmospheric humidity to prevent swollen and untidy growth caused by excessive water and shade.
Soil
Well-draining soil is essential.
Temperature
Thrives in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Humidity
Prefers low to moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
During the growing season, feed Senecio citriformis with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Opt for a liquid plant food specifically for cacti and succulents, rich in potassium and phosphorous but low in nitrogen. Excessive nitrogen can lead to soft and water-filled succulent plants, so it's essential to use a fertilizer with the right balance.
Pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead growth.
Repotting
Senecio citriformis requires repotting every 2-3 years due to its delicate nature. Adding compost to the new container helps adjust the plant to the desired height. During repotting, handle the plant with care, supporting it when upturning the old container, positioning the root ball, adding potting mix, and arranging the pearls for an elegant display over the pot.
Dormancy
May go semi-dormant in winter; reduce watering.
Pests and Diseases
Susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites; watch for signs of infestation.
Is Senecio citriformis Toxic to Pets?
Senecio citriformis can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of animals.
How to Propagate Senecio citriformis
- Prepare stem cuttings for propagation by cutting strings near a node.
- Let the cut ends dry before planting in fresh soil to restart the growth.
The cuttings should root within 2 to 6 weeks, forming potato-like lumps under the soil.
Need tools for succulent propagation and repotting? Here are my go-to tools: mini tool set (including syringe 💉, gloves 🧤, tweezers 🪤, dust blower 💨, tiny shovels 🛠️) and well-draining mix 🌱.Where Can I Buy Senecio citriformis?
Senecio citriformis is available at local nurseries, garden centers, or online plant shops.
Other Senecio Species
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Senecio rowleyanus (String of Pearls): Known for its trailing stems with bead-like leaves, resembling a string of pearls.
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Senecio radicans (String of Bananas): Features banana-shaped leaves on trailing stems, creating a cascading effect.
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Senecio herreianus (String of Beads): Similar to String of Pearls but with more rounded, bead-like leaves.
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Senecio mandraliscae (Blue Chalksticks): A succulent with blue-gray, finger-like leaves.
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Senecio serpens (Blue Chalksticks): Resembles Blue Chalksticks but with smaller, more compact growth.
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Senecio barbertonicus (Succulent Bush Senecio): Bushy succulent with cylindrical leaves and a silvery-green hue.
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Senecio crassissimus (Vertical Leaf Senecio): Known for its upright growth with thick, fleshy leaves.
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Senecio haworthii (Cocoon Plant): Features cylindrical, densely packed leaves forming a rosette, resembling a cocoon.
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Senecio kleiniiformis (Spear Head): Compact succulent with triangular leaves, resembling a spearhead.
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Senecio jacobsenii (Trailing Jade): Trailing succulent with green, bean-shaped leaves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Senecio citriformis suitable for beginners?
Yes, Senecio citriformis is generally considered suitable for beginners due to its relatively easy care requirements.
How often should I water Senecio citriformis?
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During winter, reduce watering.
Can Senecio citriformis tolerate low light conditions?
While it prefers bright, indirect sunlight, it can tolerate some lower light conditions.
Is this plant pet-friendly?
No, Senecio citriformis can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of animals.
What is the best fertilizer for Senecio citriformis?
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season, and opt for a cactus and succulent-specific fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorous, but low in nitrogen.
How often should I repot Senecio citriformis?
Repot every 2-3 years, taking care as the plant is delicate. Add compost to the new container for proper adjustment.
Does Senecio citriformis have any special temperature requirements?
It thrives in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and may go semi-dormant in winter.
What are the common pests and diseases to watch out for?
Senecio citriformis is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites; regularly check for signs of infestation.
Can I grow Senecio citriformis indoors?
Yes, it can be grown indoors, preferably in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
How do I propagate Senecio citriformis?
Propagate through stem cuttings. Cut strings near a node, let cut ends dry, and plant them in fresh soil. The cuttings should root within 2 to 6 weeks, forming potato-like lumps under the soil.
