possibly humans.
A beautiful succulent from South America,
and keeping it hanging prevents accidental
ingestion by pets or children.
It does bloom, when it feels like it, but it's rather picky in that regard, and I love it for the unusual 'strings' of round leaves. The blooms are pink, rather fuzzy-looking, and quite unusual. The 'strings' can get quite long, if allowed, and can make a striking focal point all by themselves.
Light: It likes LOTS of light, but not harsh direct sun. Mine is hung in the North-facing window of my back plant room, which has full length windows on the East and North sides. So it gets morning sun too, and all afternoon, but not much direct. It can also do quite well in a South or West window, provided some relief from direct intense sun.
Water: It does not like a lot of water, about every 2 weeks, and be sure it has good drainage. I take it down and put it in the sink to thoroughly soak it, and then let it drain well before re-hanging. Remember to reduce watering during the winter or dormant season. If you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Always use room-temperature water that has been standing open at least 24 hours for your houseplants. This reduces noxious chemicals.
Temp.: 50-75 degrees F, 10-24 C
Humidity: Loves it - I spray it with the mister at least once a day when doing the other plants, 'medium humidity' is recommended. DO NOT soak the top soil too heavily on a daily basis, though, just a couple of sprays. If you have it in a pot, rather than hanging, put some pebbles or small gravel in the drip tray and add water as needed to maintain humidity, rather than misting.
Soil: Mix equal parts general purpose potting soil and coarse sand with a good dusting of bone meal and limestone (couple of eggshells). I like to put a layer of small gravel in the bottom of the pot, to ensure drainage. Always use a pot with a hole.
Fertilizer: Just twice a year, I like the water-soluble drops, like Schultz's. Once in the Spring, and once in the Summer.
Pests: Prone to aphids, mealy bugs, and rarely spider mites or whitefly. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. Isolate the affected plant, and spritz it with a dilute solution of dish soap and Tabasco sauce (red) in water. Repeat spritzing daily, and wipe away traces of infestation if possible, until plant shows no further signs of pests. (Never had a problem with mine)
Propagation: Seeds or stem cuttings. Propagate in evenly moist soil, mist occasionally and keep in filtered sunlight until they are growing well. The seeds are very difficult to start, and not recommended for the novice. The plant is hard to find in Garden Centers, but it can be mail-ordered quite sucessfully.
Stem cuttings available, email Lynnel@pixelsgardenandpatio.com.
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