Can String of Pearls Grow in Water? Truth Revealed

By James Wilson · January 24, 2026

Yes, string of pearls (Curio rowleyanus) can grow in water, but it is not the ideal long-term growing method. While stem cuttings readily root in water and may survive for months, the plant thrives best in well-draining soil with bright, indirect light.

Can String of Pearls Grow in Water? Understanding the Basics

String of pearls (Curio rowleyanus) is a trailing succulent known for its spherical leaves and low-maintenance care. Many gardeners wonder if it can be propagated or grown hydroponically. The answer is yes—but with caveats. While the plant can root and survive in water, it does not flourish as it would in soil.

Why Water Propagation Works Initially

Like many succulents, string of pearls has the ability to develop roots from stem cuttings when placed in water. This process leverages the plant's natural regeneration capabilities:

Roots form within 7–14 days under optimal conditions
Water provides immediate hydration and oxygen to developing cells
No risk of overwatering during initial rooting phase

Pros and Cons of Growing String of Pearls in Water

While convenient, growing this succulent in water presents trade-offs between ease of propagation and long-term health.

Advantages

Simple propagation method for beginners
Easy monitoring of root development
No need for soil or pots initially
Lower risk of fungal infections during early stages

Disadvantages

Limited nutrient availability compared to soil
Higher risk of root rot if water is not changed regularly
Potential for weak, water-adapted roots that struggle in soil later
Inability to support long-term growth and flowering

How to Propagate String of Pearls in Water: Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to successfully propagate string of pearls in water:

Cut a healthy 4–6 inch stem using sterilized scissors
Remove the lower leaves to expose nodes (rooting points)
Place the cutting in a clean glass container with room-temperature water
Ensure only nodes are submerged, not the leaves
Position in bright, indirect light (e.g., near an east-facing window)
Change water every 5–7 days to prevent stagnation
Wait 1–3 weeks for roots to develop before transplanting to soil

Long-Term Growth in Water: Is It Sustainable?

Although string of pearls can survive in water for several months, prolonged hydroponic growth leads to declining vigor. Unlike true aquatic plants, succulents like Curio rowleyanus evolved in arid environments with excellent drainage.

Signs Your Plant Is Struggling in Water

Yellowing or shriveling pearls
Foul odor from water (indicating root rot)
Stem thinning or dieback
Lack of new growth after initial rooting

Growth Medium	Average Rooting Time	Survival Rate (8 Weeks)	Transplant Success Rate	Longevity Potential
Water	10 days	85%	60%	3–6 months
Sandy Soil Mix	14 days	92%	88%	Years (with care)
Perlite + Coir	12 days	90%	85%	Years (with care)

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that while water propagation achieves faster rooting, survival and transplant success are significantly higher in well-draining soil mixes. Longevity is greatly reduced in water-only environments, highlighting its role as a short-term propagation tool rather than a permanent growing medium.

Better Alternatives: Optimal Soil and Care Conditions

For sustained health, transfer rooted cuttings to a suitable growing medium soon after root development.

Recommended Soil Mix

2 parts potting soil
1 part perlite
1 part coarse sand or pumice

Essential Care Tips After Transplanting

Use a pot with drainage holes
Water only when soil is completely dry
Provide 6–8 hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily
Maintain temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C)
Fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to summer)

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing String of Pearls in Water

Can string of pearls live permanently in water?

No, string of pearls cannot live permanently in water. While it can root and survive for several months, it will eventually decline due to nutrient deficiencies and poor root adaptation. For long-term health, transplant to well-draining soil after rooting.

How long does it take for string of pearls to root in water?

String of pearls typically develops roots within 7 to 14 days when placed in water under bright, indirect light. Cooler temperatures or low light may extend this period to 3 weeks.

Should I add fertilizer to the water when propagating?

No, avoid adding fertilizer during water propagation. The cutting relies on stored energy to form roots. Once transplanted into soil, begin a diluted liquid fertilizer regimen during the growing season.

Why are my string of pearls turning yellow in water?

Yellowing pearls in water often indicate root rot or poor oxygenation due to stagnant water. Change the water weekly and ensure the container is clean. Also, avoid submerging any leaves, as they are prone to rot when wet.

Can I grow string of pearls in a hydroponic system?

Technically possible but not recommended. Hydroponic systems lack the dry-recovery cycle this succulent needs. Even advanced setups struggle to mimic the drought-like conditions native to its South African habitat.