When creating beautiful garden designs, it’s not just about colorful flowers, but also about combining different textures and shapes. Succulents are great at bringing distinctive textures to gardens. One must-have succulent for growers in warmer regions is the stunning string of dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) plant.
String of dolphins have long been admired as unique houseplants, but gardeners in zones 10 and higher can also grow them outdoors as perennials. Gardeners in colder zones can also grow them in containers to bring them in for the winter. With leaves shaped like dolphins, these cute trailing plants are perfect for hanging baskets or trailing over garden beds and walls. They are also ideal for water-wise gardens, especially during a drought.
Caring for string of dolphins
Native to South America, string of dolphins thrive in temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. They grow well in cactus soil and require occasional watering during dry periods, but be careful not to overwater. String of dolphins do well in part sun locations and dappled shade. If bringing them inside for winter, make sure to harden off the plant to prevent shock from temperature and light changes.
String of dolphins also produce beautiful cinnamon-scented white flowers in addition to their unique leaf shapes. They can be used as spiller elements in container gardens, paired with thriller and filler plants that have similar soil preferences such as hens and chicks (Sempervivum tectorum) and echeverias.
