Question

This plant was found in the drylands section of a public conservatory (you can see a potted cactus in the background). It did not have a label, and there was nobody around to ask about it. The plant has hanging stems about a meter long, with spherical leaves about five millimeters in diameter -- the leaves appear to be genuinely spherical, not curled-up flat leaves. Any idea what it is?

Answer 1

The plant you described is likely a species of Senecio, possibly Senecio radicans, commonly known as String of Pearls due to its trailing stems adorned with spherical leaves.

Step-by-step explanation:

Senecio radicans, often referred to as String of Pearls, is a succulent plant characterized by trailing stems that can grow up to a meter long. The distinctive feature of this plant is its spherical leaves, typically around five millimeters in diameter, giving it a unique appearance resembling a string of small beads or pearls. The plant belongs to the Senecio genus, known for its diverse species, many of which have succulent leaves. The spherical shape of the leaves distinguishes it from flat or cylindrical leaves commonly found on other succulents like cacti or some Echeveria species.

String of Pearls is a popular choice for indoor gardens or hanging baskets due to its cascading growth habit and intriguing appearance. This succulent prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, typical of many desert-dwelling plants. Its care includes allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. The plant propagates easily from stem cuttings, making it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts.

Overall, the plant's characteristics, such as its trailing stems with spherical leaves and its habitat in the drylands section of the conservatory, align with the features of Senecio radicans, commonly known as String of Pearls.