woodii
woodii
String of Hearts
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Taxonomy
Family Apocynaceae · Genus Ceropegia
Description
Ceropegia woodii, loved as the String of Hearts, is a charming trailing succulent vine with dainty, heart-shaped leaves and delicate lantern-like blooms. It’s low-fuss, fast-growing in bright light, and perfect for shelves or hanging baskets.
Common Names
String of HeartsChain of HeartsRosary VineHearts-on-a-String
Context
nativeRegion
Southern Africa (South Africa, Eswatini, Zimbabwe).
usdaZones
10–12 (grown as a houseplant in cooler regions).
companionPlants
Curio rowleyanus (String of Pearls), Dischidia ruscifolia (Million Hearts), Hoya linearis, Peperomia prostrata (String of Turtles), Rhipsalis species
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental for hanging baskets and shelves; popular in minimalist and boho decor. Heart-shaped leaves symbolize love and affection.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light with a few hours of gentle morning sun; tolerates bright filtered sun. Avoid prolonged harsh midday sun indoors.
WateringLet soil dry at least 2/3 to completely between waterings; water thoroughly, then drain. Reduce in winter. Drought tolerant; avoid soggy soil.
SoilVery fast-draining cactus/succulent mix with extra perlite or pumice; airy, shallow container with drainage. Slightly acidic to neutral pH.
FertilizerLight feeder: balanced or succulent fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; none or minimal in winter.
HumidityAverage indoor humidity (35–60%) is fine; no special boost required.
TemperatureIdeal 60–85°F (16–29°C). Protect from cold; avoid below 50°F (10°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTrailing, vining, succulent with tuberous roots and nodes that readily root.
Mature SizeVines 6–12+ ft (1.8–3.6 m) long indoors; compact leaves ~0.5–1 in (1–2.5 cm).
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, bright conditions.
BloomingSmall tubular, mauve-purple flowers mainly summer to fall; sporadic indoors year-round in bright light.
DormancyLight winter rest; growth slows in cool temps/short days—reduce watering and feeding.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings at nodes, Tuber division, Layering onto soil, Seeds (rare)
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTrim leggy vines to shape and encourage branching; you can re-root trimmings as cuttings.
RepottingInfrequent—every 2–3 years or when crowded. Prefers snug, shallow pots with excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Overwatering leads to root rot; low light causes stretching.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and people, but avoid ingestion.
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