The Teddy Bear Vine (Cyanotis kewensis or Cyanotis beddomei) is a charming houseplant celebrated for its unique, textural foliage. Its common name comes from the dense, soft hairs that cover its leaves and stems, giving it a fuzzy, velvet-like appearance. The small, teardrop-shaped leaves are typically olive or bronze-green on top, often paired with a striking purple underside. Its cascading growth habit makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or for letting stems drape over a shelf.
Setting Up the Ideal Habitat
Providing the right light conditions is paramount, as this vining succulent thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near a window that receives morning sunlight is optimal, enhancing leaf color without being overly intense. Insufficient light can cause the plant to become “leggy,” resulting in long, weak stems with smaller, widely spaced leaves.
Scorching occurs when the plant is exposed to harsh, direct midday or afternoon sun, manifesting as brown marks on the leaves. The ideal potting medium should be airy and exceptionally well-draining to prevent water retention around the roots. Use a specialized cactus or succulent potting mix, or amend a standard houseplant mix with materials like perlite or coarse sand. Containers must have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape and reduce the risk of root rot.
This tropical plant prefers standard indoor temperatures, generally flourishing between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 27°C). It tolerates average household humidity, but benefits from levels around 50–55%. If the air is excessively dry, especially in heated or air-conditioned rooms, place the plant near a humidifier or on a pebble tray.
Mastering Routine Care
Since the Teddy Bear Vine stores water in its fleshy leaves and stems, use the “soak and dry” technique. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry out significantly before the next application. Wait until the top two to three inches of soil are completely dry, or slightly longer during winter. Overwatering is the most common cause of decline, leading to yellowing leaves and potential stem rot.
Fertilization is necessary only during active growth in spring and summer to encourage robust development. Apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength, no more than once a month. The plant does not require feeding during the fall and winter when growth naturally slows down.
Pruning helps maintain a dense, compact shape and encourages new growth. If stems become long and sparse (leggy), trimming them back promotes branching and a fuller appearance. Routinely remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant tidy. Rotating the pot regularly ensures all sides receive adequate light, contributing to balanced growth.
Multiplying Your Plant
Stem cuttings are the most reliable and common method for propagating Teddy Bear Vines. The ideal time to take cuttings is during the active growing season (spring through early summer) when the plant has the most energy. Select a healthy stem and use a clean, sharp tool to take a cutting three to four inches long, ensuring it includes at least two to three leaf nodes.
Remove the leaves from the lower section of the cutting, as roots will emerge from these nodes. Allow the fresh cut end to dry out for one to three days so a protective layer, or callus, can form. This callousing step reduces the chance of the cutting rotting once it is placed in a rooting medium.
Cuttings can be rooted either in water or directly into the soil. For soil propagation, insert the calloused end into a container filled with the same well-draining succulent mix used for the parent plant. Keep the soil lightly moist and place the container in a warm, well-lit location until new growth indicates successful rooting.