With leaves that appear in pairs Monilaria moniliformis is a rare succulent sometimes called the Bunny Succulent.
Also known as String of Pearls, and this term refers to the stem which looks like a string of pearls as the plant ages.
The active growth period is from winter through to spring, and the white flowers that appear in spring and are daisy like in appearance.
After flowering the plant goes dormant, the leaves die back and new leaves are formed in on of the ‘pearls’ or sclerotic sheath.
Care
A well drained growing medium is essential and a position in good sun is needed.
During active growth, water regularly allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Repot every second or third year using a potting mix which has good amounts of pumice and perlite added to improve drainage, or try a specialist cactus and succulent potting mix.
Propagation
Generally from seed also possible by division. From seed try the following steps.
- These are a seed that can be slow to germinate so be patient.
- They are also best sown in late summer too early winter.
- A specialist seed rising mix is best and try plating 2 – 3 seeds in a 4 inch (10cm) pot
- They require light to germinate so need to surface sown or covered only with a very thin layer of seed raising mix
- Keep slightly moist and at around 20 – 22 C (68 – 72 F).
- Wait until the plants are 12 months old before repotting.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Monilaria moniliformis
- Common Name – Bunny Succulent, Bunny Ear Succulent.
- Family – Azoaceae
- Origins – South Africa (Western Cape)
- Height – To around 15cm.
- Spread – Clump forming
- Growth rate – Medium.
- Position – Light shade to Full sun.
- Soil – Free draining humus rich with some moisture.
- Flowers – White.
- Flowering Time – Spring
- Foliage – Mid green.
- Frost tolerant – No
- Drought tolerant – Medium