The String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii), also known as Rosary Vine, Chain of Hearts, or Sweetheart Vine, is a popular houseplant. It features delicate, heart-shaped leaves that cascade down long, slender vines. Its distinctive foliage, often marbled with shades of green and silver with pink or purple undersides, makes it ideal for hanging baskets or shelves.
Caring for String of Hearts
Light
String of Hearts thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its natural dappled sunlight habitat. Place it near a south or west-facing window to provide filtered light without harsh, direct sun exposure. While it tolerates some morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch its delicate leaves.
Insufficient light causes leggy growth, where vines stretch and foliage loses color or variegation. If leaves appear pale green or marbling fades, the plant needs more light. Variegated varieties require ample light to maintain their striking pink or white hues, which can intensify with higher light. Grow lights can supplement natural light for healthy growth and color.
Watering
Proper watering is essential for String of Hearts, a succulent that stores water in its leaves and tuberous roots. It thrives with a “soak and dry” method, meaning the soil should dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering often leads to yellowing or mushy leaves.
To check for watering, insert a finger an inch or two into the potting mix; if dry, the plant needs water. During the spring and summer growing season, water every 1-2 weeks. In cooler months, when growth slows, significantly reduce watering frequency. Shriveling, curling, or dry leaves indicate underwatering.
Soil and Potting
String of Hearts requires a well-draining potting mix to prevent water retention. A succulent or cactus mix is ideal for drainage. If using regular potting soil, improve drainage by adding coarse sand, perlite, or pumice, mimicking its natural fast-draining environment.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes for excess water to escape. String of Hearts has fine roots and prefers shallower pots. Repotting is typically needed every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing from drainage holes or soil drying quickly. When repotting, choose a pot only slightly larger to avoid excessive moisture retention.
Temperature and Humidity
String of Hearts prefers warm environments, ideally between 18°C to 28°C (65°F and 80°F). They are not tolerant of frost; temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can cause damage. Keep the plant away from cold drafts and direct heat sources.
While String of Hearts tolerates average household humidity, 40% to 50% humidity is beneficial for optimal growth. Good air circulation around the plant helps prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing
String of Hearts plants do not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer during the active growing season (spring and summer), either monthly or once or twice a year.
Use a diluted liquid fertilizer to prevent over-fertilization, which can harm the plant. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter when growth slows. Fertilizing during the growing season supports healthy foliage and encourages small, tubular pink or purple flowers.
Propagating String of Hearts
Propagating String of Hearts is straightforward. The most common method uses stem cuttings. Snip a section of vine just below a leaf node, ensuring the cutting has at least one pair of leaves. Remove any lower leaves that would be submerged to prevent rot.
Stem cuttings can root in water or soil. For water propagation, place cuttings in water with nodes submerged, changing water regularly. Roots typically develop within weeks, after which cuttings can be transplanted into well-draining potting mix. For soil propagation, insert cuttings directly into moist succulent or cactus mix, keeping it consistently moist.
Another method uses the small, bead-like tubers that form along the stems. These aerial tubers can be gently pressed onto moist soil or slightly covered to encourage rooting. If a tuber has roots, it can be separated and potted as a new plant.
Common Problems and Solutions
String of Hearts plants are generally low-maintenance but can face common issues. Yellowing or mushy leaves indicate overwatering. If this occurs, reduce watering and let the soil dry completely. Removing affected leaves aids recovery.
Conversely, shriveling, curling, or dry leaves signal underwatering. Provide a thorough watering. Leggy growth suggests insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location for more compact growth and vibrant foliage.
Loss of variegation or fading colors, especially in variegated varieties, also indicates inadequate light. Scorched or crispy leaves mean too much direct sunlight. Relocate the plant to filtered light or use sheer curtains. While generally pest-resistant, mealybugs can occur and require appropriate control.