Wax plant vs String of pearls
Hoya carnosa vs Curio rowleyanus
Both trailing succulent-ish plants — Hoya is easier; pearls are temperamental.
Which should you pick?
Pet households: Wax plant is safe for cats and dogs; String of pearls is toxic to pets.
Wax plant is easier to care for than String of pearls.
Wax plant tolerates lower light; String of pearls needs brighter conditions.
9 of 10 attributes differ (highlighted below).
Side by side
| Wax plant | String of pearls | |
|---|---|---|
| Pet safety | Safe for cats and dogs | Toxic to pets |
| Light | Medium / part shade – Bright indirect | Bright indirect – Direct sun |
| Water | Let the top inch dry | Let dry fully between waterings |
| Humidity | Average household | Low |
| Temperature | 16°C – 27°C · 61°F – 81°F | 13°C – 27°C · 55°F – 81°F |
| Difficulty | Easy | Moderate |
| Soil | Standard potting mix | Cactus / succulent mix |
| Fertilizing | Monthly, growing season | Lightly, growing season only |
| Mature height (indoor) | 0.6–1.2 m | 5–10 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate | Moderate |
