String of Buttons (Cotyledon woodii)

String of Buttons

Cotyledon woodii

Plump, stacked leaves form trailing succulent chains like living beads. Evergreen trailing succulent; common name: String of Buttons.

Partial sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect to partial direct sun; 4+ hours of daily sun exposure enhances red leaf margins
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot; avoid standing water
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Temperature Thrives at 15–25℃; protect from frost below 10℃ to prevent leaf damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, oval to round, fleshy, blue-green with red margins when exposed to full sun
  • Stem: Slender, trailing, woody at the base as it matures
  • Flower: Bell-shaped, coral-pink to orange, clustered at the tips of mature stems
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when soil is fully dry; reduce frequency in humid weather

Fertilization

Diluted succulent feed once monthly. Do not fertilize in winter when growth enters dormancy

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per pot on soil surface; avoid direct contact with roots to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Trim leggy stems to encourage bushier, compact growth
  • Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance
  • Cut back overgrown trailing stems in early spring to refresh the plant
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to bufadienolides; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy

Humans: Contains bufadienolides; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental hanging succulent for indoor decor and outdoor rock gardens