String of Hearts

String of Hearts

Ceropegia woodii 

Origin

Native to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Eswatini (Swaziland)

Pet-friendly

General Care

Light

Bright filtered to direct sun (at least 3-4 hours per day). 

Temperature

18-24°C.

Humidity

Average.

Water

Weekly. Water sparingly (spring-fall) and allow barely moist potting mix to dry almost fully.  Water even more sparingly (winter) and only enough to keep the mix from drying out completely. Sensitive to overwatering and susceptible to root rot. Always check moisture level before watering. Aerate mix to improve its condition. 

Fertilizer

Once a month at half-strength (spring-fall). Use organic houseplant fertilizer, according to packaging instructions.

Maintenance

Every 1-2 weeks, rotate plant to ensure even growth. Every 1-2 months, dust leaves with a soft, dry paintbrush or toothbrush and inspect for pests, when doing so. Trim unsightly or unruly vines with sterile shears. Remove faded flowers.

Potting and Repotting

Mix of 1 part soil-based potting mix and 1 part coarse sand or perlite. Performs well in crowded planters. Every 2-3 years (spring) move plant into a planter 1-2” larger (diameter and depth); or, repot in the same planter, using new potting mix, after cleaning planter and partially trimming back roots and foliage. Top dress annually, once maximum convenient planter size reached (5-6” diameter).

Special Points/Common Problems: 

  • Pale leaves may suggest insufficient light.
  • Crinkled leaves may suggest underwatering.
  • Yellow leaves may suggest overwatering.
  • Trailing, bead-like vines may grow up to 9’. Propagate from tuberous growths (bulbils) found on vines. To do so:
    • Prepare small pots with soil mixture, covered with ½” coarse sand or perlite. Lay tubers atop, still attached to parent plant. 
    • Water sparingly, in medium light, until new roots establish (up to 8 weeks).
    • Once established, cut from parent and gradually transition into direct sunlight. Treat as mature plant.
  • Produces inch-long, vase-shaped pale pink flowers with dark purple, hairy extensions (summer-fall). Flowers last up to 6 weeks.