Ceropegia sandersonii

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Parachute Plant
Ceropegia sandersonii
Parachute Plant
Taxonomy
Family Apocynaceae · Genus Ceropegia
Common Names
Parachute PlantUmbrella PlantSanderson's Ceropegia
Context
nativeRegion
South Africa (KwaZulu-Natal, Eswatini, Mozambique)
usdaZones
10-11 (grown as houseplant elsewhere)
companionPlants
Hoya, Dischidia, Rhipsalis
culturalUses
Ornamental houseplant prized for its curious flowers and twining growth.

Care

Care Requirements

LightBright, indirect light; tolerates some direct sun but avoid scorching midday rays.
WateringAllow soil to dry out between waterings; water sparingly, especially in winter.
SoilWell-draining, airy mix such as cactus or succulent soil with added perlite.
FertilizerFeed monthly during growing season with diluted, balanced fertilizer.
HumidityPrefers moderate humidity but tolerates average household levels.
TemperatureOptimal range is 18-25°C (64-77°F); protect from cold below 10°C (50°F).

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitTrailing or climbing succulent vine with twining stems.
Mature SizeStems can reach up to 2-4 meters (6-13 ft) if supported.
Growth RateModerately fast-growing under optimal conditions.
BloomingProduces unusual, inflated green flowers resembling parachutes, spring to summer.
DormancyReduces growth in cooler months but not fully dormant.

Propagation

MethodsStem cuttings, Tuber division
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring and early summer

Maintenance & Notes

PruningTrim vines to manage size or leggy growth; prune after flowering.
RepottingEvery 2-3 years or when roots outgrow container.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs, spider mites; root rot if overwatered.
ToxicityMildly toxic to pets if ingested.

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