String of Coins Plant Care: A Complete Guide for Plant Parents

Hey plant lovers! I’ve been growing String of Coins (Xerosicyos danguyi) for about 2 years now, and I’m super excited to share everything I’ve learned about caring for this unique trailing succulent. Whether you’re a newbie or experienced plant parent, this guide will help your String of Coins thrive!

What Makes String of Coins Special?

Before we dive into care tips, let me tell you why I’m obsessed with this plant

• Beautiful silvery-green to blue-green round leaves that look like actual coins
• Trailing vines perfect for hanging baskets
• Super low-maintenance (perfect for busy plant parents!)
• Non-toxic to pets and kids
• Unique addition to your succulent collection

Essential Care Requirements

Light Requirements

From my experience, these plants are pretty adaptable with light. While they can handle different lighting conditions, here’s what works best

• Ideal: Bright indirect light
• Can tolerate: Lower light levels
• Avoid: Direct harsh sunlight (can burn leaves)
• Best location: Near south-facing windows with filtered light

Watering Needs

This is where most people mess up (I know I did at first!), Here’s what I’ve learned

• Use the “soak and dry” method
• Wait until soil is completely dry before watering again
• Water less frequently in winter
• Always use pots with drainage holes
• Signs of overwatering: drooping leaves, root rot

Soil & Potting Requirements

Your String of Coins needs:

• Well-draining succulent or cactus mix
• pH level between 6.0-6.5 (slightly acidic)
• Add perlite or sand for better drainage
• Repot every 2 years or when rootbound

Temperature & Humidity

These plants are pretty tough! They can handle:

• Ideal temp: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Can survive: 20-104°F (-6-40°C)
• Prefers: Low to moderate humidity
• Avoid: Humid bathrooms or near humidifiers

Growth & Maintenance

Size Expectations:

Indoor plants typically reach:

• Height: 8 inches (20cm)
• Spread: 8 inches (20cm)
• Trailing length: Up to 17 inches (45cm)

Fertilizing

Honestly, these plants don’t need much feeding:

• Feed once during summer months
• Use balanced water-soluble fertilizer
• Dilute to half strength
• Skip fertilizing in winter

Common Problems & Solutions

1. Overwatering Issues

• Symptoms: Drooping leaves, root rot
• Solution: Reduce watering, check soil drainage
• Prevention: Let soil dry completely between waterings

2. Light Problems

• Symptoms: Leggy growth, pale leaves
• Solution: Move to brighter location
• Prevention: Ensure adequate indirect light

3. Pest Problems

While pretty resistant, watch out for:

• Scale insects
• Treatment: Rubbing alcohol on affected areas
• Prevention: Good air circulation, proper watering

Propagation Tips

Want more String of Coins? Here’s how I propagate mine:

1. Stem Cuttings (Easiest Method):

   • Take 4-inch cuttings in spring
   • Let callus form (few days)
   • Plant in well-draining soil
   • Keep soil slightly moist

2. Seeds (More Challenging):

   • Plant in spring
   • Keep at 69°F (21°C)
   • Expect germination in 14-21 days

Pro Tips from My Experience

1. Don’t fuss too much – these plants prefer neglect over helicopter parenting!
2. Watch for signs of overwatering – it’s the #1 killer
3. Give them something to trail on – they love showing off those vines
4. Don’t worry about perfect leaves – some imperfection is natural

Final Thoughts

I gotta say, my String of Coins has been one of my easiest plants to care for. Sure, I killed my first one (oops!), but once you get the basics down, they’re pretty much bulletproof. Just remember: well-draining soil, careful watering, and bright indirect light are your best friends.

Have you got any String of Coins care tips to share? Drop them in the comments below! And if you’re still struggling with yours, don’t worry – we’ve all been there. Just keep at it, and you’ll get the hang of it!

Happy growing!

String of Pearls Quick Growing Reference Guide