String of Turtles
Peperomia prostrata
A delicate trailing peperomia with tiny round leaves patterned like miniature turtle shells. Slow-growing and compact, it is well suited to small hanging pots and terrariums.
- Light
- Medium to bright indirect light
- Water
- When top half of soil dries
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
String of Turtles is a petite trailing peperomia from Brazilian rainforests, named for its small, rounded leaves marked with intricate veining that resembles a turtle's shell.
It is a slow-growing, semi-succulent epiphyte that stays compact, trailing only modestly. The delicate patterned foliage and easygoing nature make it a beloved small-space and terrarium plant that asks for little beyond bright indirect light and careful watering.
How to identify it
Identify it by trailing thread-like stems lined with tiny, round, turtle-shell-patterned leaves.
- Leaves: small (under half an inch), rounded, fleshy, dark green with pale silvery veining like a tortoise shell
- Stems: slender, trailing, with closely spaced leaves
- Habit: compact, slow-growing trailer
- Flowers: thin, insignificant peperomia 'rat-tail' spikes
- Size: trails up to roughly 12 in over time
Care & growing
Light: Medium to bright indirect light brings out the leaf pattern; avoid direct sun.
Water: Water when the top half of the soil dries; its semi-succulent leaves store water, so err on the dry side to avoid rot.
Soil: Light, airy, well-draining mix.
Temperature: 65-80F with moderate to high humidity.
Feeding: Diluted fertilizer occasionally during growth.
Propagation: Easy from stem cuttings laid on moist soil; the trailing stems root readily at the nodes.
Habitat & origin
Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where it grows as a creeping epiphyte on the forest floor and over rocks and logs in humid, shaded conditions.
It is grown worldwide as a compact trailing houseplant, popular for small hanging pots, shelves, and closed terrariums.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my String of Turtles dropping leaves or looking mushy?
Overwatering is the usual cause. Let the top half of the soil dry between waterings and make sure the pot drains freely.
Why is it growing so slowly?
Slow growth is normal for this plant. Bright indirect light and warmth will give you the best, steadiest growth, but it will never be a fast trailer.
How do I make it fuller?
Tuck trailing stems back onto the soil surface or propagate cuttings into the same pot; they root at the nodes and fill in the container.
String of Turtles guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for String of Turtles.
