String of turtles guide
Peperomia prostrata, also called Peperomia prostrata, turtle vine
Published 2026-11-08
Quick care
- Light
- Medium
- Water
- When the top 2 cm (1 in) of soil is dry. Its tiny leaves hold less water than other peperomias.
- Humidity
- 40% or higher keeps the leaves plump
- Temperature
- 18 to 27°C (65 to 80°F). Keep above 13°C (55°F).
- Soil
- Chunky, fast-draining mix with perlite and bark
- Feeding
- Half-strength fertilizer monthly in spring and summer
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Mature size
- Trails 30 cm (12 in)
- Propagation
- Leaf or stem cuttings in water or soil
- Where to buy
- Plant shops
This page covers what makes string of turtles different. For light, water, soil, pests, and the rest, read the peperomia care guide.
What it is
String of turtles is a tiny trailing peperomia. Its round leaves are smaller than a fingernail. Each leaf has a pattern of silver and dark green veins, like a turtle’s shell. The thin stems trail over the edge of a small pot. It is often sold with the “string of” succulents, but it is a peperomia.
How to tell it apart
| Plant | Leaves | The tell |
|---|---|---|
| String of turtles | Tiny, round, turtle-shell pattern | Silver veins in a shell pattern |
| String of pearls | Round, smooth green beads | Beads, not flat leaves |
| String of hearts | Small hearts with silver marbling | Heart-shaped leaves on wiry stems |
Care differences
It is fussier than most peperomias. Its tiny leaves dry out faster, and it wants a bit more humidity. Do not let it dry out all the way. It also rots in soggy soil, so use a fast-draining mix and a small pot.
Bright indirect light keeps the pattern clear. Direct sun scorches it.
Grow it from a cutting
Lay a strand on moist soil and pin it down. Roots grow from the nodes in two to four weeks.
Buying it
String of turtles is sold at plant shops and some garden centers. Look for plump, patterned leaves. Shriveled or wrinkled leaves mean it went dry.