Contents
Description
Roepera Sessilifolia, also known as the String of Tears, is a trailing succulent plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance needs. The plant has slender stems that grow up to 3 feet long and are adorned with elongated, teardrop-shaped leaves that resemble strings of pearls. It blooms small white flowers that are not very noticeable.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Roepera |
Appearance
The String of Tears has thin, trailing stems that can grow up to 3 feet long. The leaves are elongated and teardrop-shaped, resembling strings of pearls. The leaves grow off the stems in pairs and are blue-green in color with a translucent appearance. The plant blooms small white flowers that are not very noticeable. The String of Tears is a unique and attractive plant that can add a touch of whimsy to any room.
Care Guide
The String of Tears is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It requires bright, indirect sunlight and should be placed near a window or in a room with plenty of natural light. The plant should be watered regularly but not overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. The soil should be well-draining and a cactus or succulent mix is recommended. A balanced fertilizer can be used once a month during the growing season. The String of Tears is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and should be protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
The String of Tears is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not allowing the plant to sit in standing water.
Habitat
The String of Tears is native to South Africa and grows in arid regions with well-draining soil. It is a succulent plant and is able to store water in its leaves, allowing it to survive in dry conditions. The plant is often found growing in rocky areas and can tolerate full sun or partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should the String of Tears be watered?
A: The plant should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can the String of Tears be grown outdoors?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown outdoors in these regions. It should be protected from frost.
Q: What type of soil is best for the String of Tears?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil and a cactus or succulent mix is recommended.
Q: How can pests be treated on the String of Tears?
A: Pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
- String of Bananas (Senecio radicans)
- String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
References
- “Roepera Sessilifolia Care Guide.” Smart Garden Guide, n.d., www.smartgardenguide.com/roepera-sessilifolia-care-guide/.
- “String of Tears: Care and Growing Guide.” World of Succulents, n.d., worldofsucculents.com/string-of-tears-care/.
- “Roepera Sessilifolia Plant Care Guide.” The Gardening Dad, 15 Apr. 2021, thegardeningdad.com/roepera-sessilifolia-plant-care-guide/.
