Ceropegia linearis
Ceropegia linearis
String of Needles
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Taxonomy
Family Apocynaceae · Genus Ceropegia
Description
Ceropegia linearis is a dainty, trailing succulent vine with pencil‑thin leaves and quirky lantern‑like flowers. It thrives in bright light, dries quickly between drinks, and makes a graceful, low‑effort hanging plant or shelf trailer.
Common Names
String of NeedlesNeedle Vine CeropegiaLantern Flower Vine
Context
nativeRegion
Southern Africa, especially South Africa and Eswatini, with occurrences in nearby regions.
usdaZones
10–12 (frost-free)
companionPlants
Ceropegia woodii (String of Hearts), Curio rowleyanus (String of Pearls), Rhipsalis species, Hoya carnosa
culturalUses
Ornamental for hanging baskets and educational interest for its unique fly-pollinated, lantern-like flowers.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright indirect light to a few hours of gentle morning sun; protect from harsh afternoon rays.
WateringWater thoroughly, then let 75–100% of the mix dry before watering again; very light sips in winter.
SoilFast-draining cactus/succulent mix amended with 25–50% pumice/perlite; add a bit of bark for aeration.
FertilizerHalf-strength balanced liquid fertilizer monthly in spring–summer; none in winter.
HumidityAverage home humidity (30–50%) is fine; ensure airflow to prevent rot.
TemperatureIdeal 60–85°F (16–29°C). Avoid below 50°F (10°C). Keep frost-free.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTrailing/twining succulent vine with slender stems and occasional tubers along nodes.
Mature SizeVines 3–10 ft long (0.9–3 m) in cultivation; compact foliage spread at the pot rim.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, bright conditions.
BloomingTypically summer to early autumn; tubular, cage-like flowers in green to maroon tones attract small fly pollinators.
DormancyLight winter rest in cooler, shorter days; growth slows—reduce water and stop feeding.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Tuber division or node tubers, Layering (pin nodes onto soil), Seed
DifficultyEasy to moderate (cuttings and layering are easiest).
Best SeasonSpring to summer when growth is active.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch or trim leggy stems to encourage branching; you can re-root cuttings for a fuller pot.
RepottingInfrequent; every 2–3 years or when roots/tubers crowd the pot. Use a shallow, well-draining container.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids; root rot if overwatered or soil stays wet.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and humans; mild stomach upset possible if ingested.
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