From the cascading burro’s tail to the upright string of pearls, these succulents bring texture and movement to containers and hanging baskets. If you are looking for the best trailing succulents types, you have come to the right place. They are perfect for shelves, window sills, and any spot where they can spill over the edge.
These plants are not just beautiful; they are also very forgiving. Most of them need bright light and little water. This makes them ideal for beginners and busy people alike. Let’s look at some of the most popular varieties and how to care for them.
Trailing Succulents Types
There is a huge variety of plants that fall into this category. Some have long, thin stems, while others have chubby, bead-like leaves. You can find them in shades of green, blue, purple, and even variegated forms. Here is a breakdown of the most common and easy-to-find options.
String Of Pearls
This is probably the most famous trailing succulent. Its scientific name is Senecio rowleyanus. The leaves look like small, green peas strung together on a thin stem. It looks stunning in a bright bathroom or near a sunny window.
They grow fast once they are happy. You can expect several inches of growth per year. Just be careful not to overwater them, as the roots are shallow and prone to rot.
Burro’s Tail
Also known as Sedum morganianum, this plant has plump, overlapping leaves. They look like little braided tails or pinecones. It is a heavy plant, so it is best to use a sturdy pot and strong hanger.
The leaves are very fragile. They will fall off if you bump the plant. But dont worry, you can propagate those fallen leaves easily. Just place them on top of soil and mist them occasionally.
String Of Bananas
This one looks similar to string of pearls, but the leaves are shaped like little bananas. It is a bit more forgiving than the pearl variety. It grows very quickly and is great for filling out a pot.
It tolerates a wider range of light conditions. However, it still prefers bright, indirect light. If it does not get enough light, the “bananas” will become spaced out and look leggy.
String Of Hearts
Known botanically as Ceropegia woodii, this plant has delicate, heart-shaped leaves. The leaves are often marbled with silver and purple. It is a lovely plant for a bookshelf or a small hanging planter.
It grows from small tubers in the soil. These tubers store water, so you can let the soil dry out completely between waterings. This makes it very drought-tolerant.
Donkey’s Tail
This is a close relative of the burro’s tail. The leaves are longer and pointier. They are often a blue-green color. It is sometimes called Sedum burrito.
It has the same fragile leaves as the burro’s tail. It is best to handle it by the pot, not the stems. It looks great in a wide, shallow bowl where it can spill over the sides.
String Of Dolphins
This is a fun and unique plant. The leaves curl in a way that looks like jumping dolphins. It is a hybrid of string of pearls and a type of ground cover. It is a newer variety but very popular.
They need a bit more light than other strings to keep their shape. If they do not get enough sun, the leaves will flatten out and lose the dolphin shape. Give it a sunny spot for best results.
Ruby Necklace
This plant, or Othonna capensis, has bright green, bean-shaped leaves. In bright light, the stems and leaves turn a deep purple or ruby red. It is a striking plant that adds a pop of color.
It is very easy to grow. It is also quite hardy and can handle a little bit of neglect. It is a great choice if you want a plant that changes color with the seasons.
Wax Plant
Also known as Hoya, this is a vining plant with thick, waxy leaves. While not a true succulent, it is often grouped with them because of its water-storing abilities. It can grow very long and is perfect for training up a trellis or letting it hang.
Many Hoyas produce beautiful, fragrant flowers. They are slow growers at first, but they become more vigorous with age. They prefer to be root-bound, so do not repot them too often.
How To Choose The Right Trailing Succulent
With so many options, how do you decide? You need to think about your light levels and your watering habits. Some are more forgiving than others.
- For Low Light: String of Bananas and Wax Plants are the most tolerant.
- For Bright, Sunny Windows: String of Pearls, Burro’s Tail, and Ruby Necklace will thrive.
- For Beginners: String of Bananas and String of Hearts are very hard to kill.
- For Small Spaces: String of Hearts and String of Dolphins stay smaller and more delicate.
Light Requirements
Most trailing succulents need bright, indirect light. This means they want to be near a window but not in the harsh, direct afternoon sun. Direct sun can burn the leaves and cause them to turn yellow.
If you have a south-facing window, place the plant a few feet back from the glass. If you only have a north-facing window, you might need to use a grow light. A lack of light will cause the stems to stretch out and look sparse.
Watering Needs
Overwatering is the number one killer of succulents. You should only water when the soil is completely dry. You can check this by sticking your finger an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water.
When you do water, water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage hole. Then, let the pot drain completely. Never let the pot sit in a saucer of water. This will cause the roots to rot.
How To Plant And Display Them
These plants look best when they are allowed to hang. You have a few options for displaying them. The right pot and soil are also important for their health.
Choosing A Pot
You need a pot with a drainage hole. This is non-negotiable for succulents. Terracotta pots are great because they wick away excess moisture. Plastic pots hold moisture longer, so you will water less often.
For trailing plants, a hanging planter is ideal. You can also use a tall pot on a stand. The stems will cascade down the sides. Make sure the pot is heavy enough not to tip over, especially with heavy plants like burro’s tail.
Best Soil Mix
Regular potting soil is too heavy for succulents. It holds too much water. You need a well-draining mix. You can buy a commercial cactus mix, or you can make your own.
To make your own, mix two parts regular potting soil, one part perlite, and one part coarse sand. This ensures that water flows through quickly and the roots get plenty of air. This mix prevents root rot.
Propagation Tips
Propagating these plants is easy and fun. It is a great way to get more plants for free. You can do this with stem cuttings or with individual leaves.
- Take a cutting with a few inches of stem.
- Remove the bottom leaves, leaving a bare stem.
- Let the cutting dry for a day or two to form a callus.
- Place the cutting on top of moist soil.
- Wait for roots to form and new growth to appear.
For leaf propagation, just gently twist a leaf off the stem. Place it on top of the soil. Mist it lightly every few days. Soon, you will see tiny roots and a new rosette forming.
Common Problems And Solutions
Even with good care, you might run into issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them. Most issues are related to watering or light.
Leggy Growth
If your plant has long stems with widely spaced leaves, it is not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location. You can also prune it back to encourage bushier growth. The cuttings can be propagated.
This is a common issue with string of pearls. They stretch out quickly in low light. A grow light can help keep them compact and full.
Leaves Falling Off
This can be caused by two things. First, it could be physical damage. Burro’s tail leaves are very fragile. Second, it could be overwatering. If the leaves are mushy and yellow, you are watering too much.
Check the soil moisture. If it is wet, let it dry out completely before watering again. Remove any mushy stems to prevent the rot from spreading. The healthy leaves can be propagated.
Root Rot
This is a serious issue. The roots turn black and mushy. The plant will look wilted even though the soil is wet. If you suspect root rot, take the plant out of the pot and inspect the roots.
Cut away any black or mushy roots with clean scissors. Repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. Do not water it for a week. This gives the roots time to heal and dry out.
Seasonal Care Guide
Succulents have different needs in different seasons. They are mostly dormant in the winter. You need to adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Spring And Summer
This is the active growing season. Your plants will be putting out new growth. You should water more often, but still only when the soil is dry. You can also fertilize them once a month with a diluted succulent fertilizer.
If you move them outside for the summer, do it gradually. Start in a shady spot and slowly introduce them to more sun. This prevents sunburn. They love the fresh air and increased light.
Fall And Winter
Growth slows down significantly. You should water much less often. You might only water once a month. The soil will stay wet longer because of lower evaporation rates.
Do not fertilize during this time. The plants are resting. Also, keep them away from cold drafts and frosty windows. They prefer temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about these beautiful plants. These answers will help you keep your plants healthy and happy.
What Is The Easiest Trailing Succulent To Grow?
String of Bananas is often considered the easiest. It grows fast and is more tolerant of irregular watering than other varieties. It also handles lower light conditions better than most.
How Often Should I Water My Trailing Succulents?
You should only water when the soil is completely dry. This could be every 7-10 days in the summer and every 3-4 weeks in the winter. Always check the soil before watering.
Can Trailing Succulents Grow Indoors?
Yes, they thrive indoors. They just need a bright window with indirect light. A south or west-facing window is usually best. You can use grow lights if you do not have enough natural light.
Why Is My String Of Pearls Shrinking?
Shrinking pearls usually mean the plant is thirsty. The leaves are storing water, and they shrink as they use it up. Give it a good drink, and they should plump up within a day or two.
Are Trailing Succulents Toxic To Pets?
Some are toxic, and some are not. String of Pearls and String of Dolphins can be mildly toxic to cats and dogs. It is best to keep them out of reach of curious pets to be safe.
Trailing succulents are a wonderful addition to any home. They add life and texture to your space. With the right light and a little water, they will reward you with beautiful, cascading growth for years. Start with one or two easy varieties and build your collection from there. You will love watching them grow and spill over their pots.