The string of frogs plant (Ficus pumila ‘Quercifolia’) is a popular houseplant known for its cute, plump leaves that resemble little green frogs. With the right care, these trailing vines can thrive indoors and make a fun addition to any home. This guide will cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for string of frogs.
Overview
- Botanical Name: Ficus pumila ‘Quercifolia’
- Common Names: Oakleaf creeping fig, string of frogs
- Plant Type: Evergreen vine
- Mature Size: Grows 3-6 feet long
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix
- Light: Bright indirect light
- Water: Allow soil to dry out between waterings
Light Requirements
String of frogs needs bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Place it in an east or west-facing window where it will get 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. Direct south-facing light may be too intense, causing the leaves to burn or fade. Avoid low light situations inside the home, as this can cause sparse, weak growth.
String of frogs should be placed outside in part-shade or dappled sunlight. The sun should not be in the middle of the day or in the afternoon, when it is very hot. Places that are protected, like under a patio cover or tree canopy, are good.
Watering and Soil
Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings taking care not to let it become bone dry. Water when the top inch of soil becomes dry to the touch. The plant should be thoroughly soaked until water runs from the drainage holes when watering. Always dump out excess water from the saucer so the pot is not left sitting in water.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as one containing peat moss, perlite, bark chips or coco coir. Regular potting soil can also work, but may hold more moisture. Add extra perlite if needed to improve drainage. The soil should dry out in 5-7 days after watering.
Temperature and Humidity
String of frogs thrives in average home temperatures between 65-80°F. Avoid drafty areas as well as hot dry air from heating vents. Higher humidity is appreciated ideally 40-60%, but not required. Group plants together, use a pebble tray, or use a humidifier to boost moisture levels.
Fertilizer
Feed string of frogs monthly in spring and summer using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half strength. Fertilizing is not necessary in fall and winter. As long as the plant is repotted in fresh soil annually, it typically does not require extra feeding.
Pruning
Prune off any dead or damaged vines as needed to maintain an attractive appearance. Trimming back long, leggy growth encourages bushier, fuller growth. Avoid removing more than 1/3 of the plant at one time when pruning. Make cuts just above a node or leaf.
Propagation
String of frogs propagates easily from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Cut a 3-4 inch piece below a node and remove the lower leaves. Allow the cutting to callous for 1-2 days then insert into moist potting mix. Keep evenly moist, not soggy wet, until new growth emerges in 2-3 weeks.
Common Problems
Brown leaves – Usually caused by too much direct sun. Move to a shadier spot.
Leggy growth – Needs more sunlight. Prune back for fuller growth.
Leaf drop – From under or overwatering. Adjust watering practices.
Pests – Mealybugs, spider mites, scale. Wipe off with alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Yellow leaves – Overwatering or poor drainage. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Tips for Success
- Repot annually in spring using fresh potting mix
- Provide a moss pole or trellis for climbing support
- Keep away from drafts and heating vents
- Prune overgrowth after flowering to encourage new growth
- Can be grown outdoors in zones 10-12
With the proper care, string of frogs makes a fun and easy to grow houseplant. It’s versatile enough to trail from a hanging basket or climb up a trellis or moss pole. Just be sure to give it plenty of bright, indirect light and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In the right conditions, this interesting vine will thrive for many years as an indoor plant.
Finding light for String of Frogs in your home
String of Frogs love being close to bright, sunny windows .
Place it less than 1ft from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.
String of Frogs does not tolerate low-light .
Choose your area to see how the current weather affects where you put String of Frogs in your house
Taxonomy Scientific name
String of Frogs needs 0. 5 cups of water every 9 when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5″ pot.
You can use our water calculator to get personalized watering advice based on your area, or you can download Greg to get more detailed advice for all of your plants.
Water 0.5 cups every 9
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FAQ
How do you take care of a String of Frogs?
They are carried on trailing stems, forming a low mat of foliage. Prefers a warm, humid environment with bright indirect light, although they can do fine in very low light. They are perfect in a window hanging basket, terrariums, or in a miniature fairy garden. Avoid direct sunlight altogether.
Can strings of Frogs grow in water?
String of Frogs prefers dry environments. Misting or adding extra humidity to your plant lets water stay on the leaves longer, which can make it a great place for harmful fungi to grow. String of Frogs does best in well-draining soil.
How much light does a String of Frogs need?
The leaves resemble a squatting green frog. They like very bright indirect light, not too much direct sun. Soil should be evenly moist at all times. Temps 55-85F are ideal and enjoys high humidity.
Does String of Frogs grow fast?
The plant grows quickly and should live for about 50 years if all conditions are perfect.