String-of-beads

Also known as String of Pearls, Pea Vine

String-of-beads is a specialized trailing succulent adapted to harsh, arid microclimates where its spherical foliage minimizes surface area to reduce water loss. Each pea-like bead features a narrow, translucent longitudinal slit called a leaf window that allows sunlight to penetrate deep into the photosynthetic interior while protecting the plant from intense solar heat. Small, cinnamon-scented white flower heads appear on slender stalks in late summer, attracting wild bees and butterflies.