String of Turtles
Peperomia prostrata
Care Difficulty
Easy to Moderate. Best suited for growers who are careful not to overwater.
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light. It tolerates medium light but grows more slowly and may lose some of its vibrant leaf pattern. Avoid direct afternoon sun.
Water Requirements
Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry before watering. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain away. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity (40 to 60%) but adapts well to average household conditions.
Pet Safety
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Growth Speed
Slow to moderate. Produces trailing stems that gradually become fuller over time.
Expected Mature Size
- Trails 12 to 24 inches long
- Spread: 12 to 24 inches
Pot Size
Typically sold in a 2.5 to 4 inch nursery pot. Prefers being slightly root-bound and only needs repotting every 2 to 3 years.
Where it Grows Best
Indoors in bright, indirect light with good air circulation. Excellent in hanging baskets, wall planters, or displayed on shelves where the vines can cascade.
Perfect for…
- Hanging baskets
- Small apartments
- Offices
- Terrariums
- Beginner plant collectors
- Pet-friendly homes
Common Mistakes
- Overwatering, which can quickly lead to root rot.
- Keeping the soil constantly wet.
- Placing the plant in direct afternoon sun.
- Growing it in low light, causing leggy growth.
- Using a heavy potting mix that doesn't drain well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called String of Turtles?
Each small, round leaf has a beautiful pattern that resembles the shell of a tiny turtle.
How often should I water it?
Water only after the top portion of the soil has dried. It prefers slightly dry conditions over consistently wet soil.
Can it tolerate low light?
Yes, but it grows best in bright, indirect light. Low light can cause slower growth and wider spacing between leaves.
How do I make it fuller?
Trim long vines occasionally to encourage branching. Stem cuttings root easily in water or moist potting mix, allowing you to fill out the pot.
Is it a succulent?
While not a true succulent, its thick leaves store some moisture, making it more drought tolerant than many tropical houseplants.
Why are the leaves falling off?
Leaf drop is usually caused by overwatering, underwatering, or sudden temperature changes. Check soil moisture and keep the plant away from cold drafts.
Shipping Guarantee
Every String of Turtles is carefully inspected, watered, and securely packaged before shipping. Protective packaging helps keep the delicate vines safe during transit so your plant arrives in excellent condition.
Healthy Arrival Guarantee
We stand behind the quality of our plants. If your String of Turtles arrives with significant shipping damage or in poor condition, contact us within 24 hours of delivery with clear photos of the plant and its packaging. We will gladly work with you to provide an appropriate replacement or store credit in accordance with our Healthy Arrival Guarantee policy.
