String of Pearls Variegated 3”

Curio rowleyanus ‘Variegata’, commonly called variegated string of pearls, is a trailing succulent native to Southwest Africa known for its bead-like leaves streaked with cream, yellow, and green. What makes this plant special is its cascading strands of round “pearls” combined with soft variegation that gives it a lighter, more delicate look compared to the solid green form.

Light drives both variegation and strand density. Place it in a south or west-facing window where it receives strong, direct light. Under grow lights, use 5000K–6500K placed 6–10 inches from the top of the plant. In lower light, the pearls become more spaced out and the variegation fades, leaning more green. Strong light keeps the strands tight, full, and well-colored.

Watering should be minimal and very controlled. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly and let it dry again, using a fast-draining mix of succulent soil, perlite, and orchid bark. This plant shows thirst through slight wrinkling or a deflated “line” on the pearls while still feeling firm. If pearls become soft, translucent, or burst, the roots are staying too wet. If strands thin out or stretch, it’s reacting to light, not watering.