The String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii) is a trailing houseplant known for its small, heart-shaped leaves. The foliage is often mottled with silver on the upper surface and may display a purplish tint underneath. As a semi-succulent, the plant develops small, bead-like tubers on its stems and roots that store water and nutrients. Its unique aesthetic and relatively forgiving nature make it a rewarding addition to any indoor collection.
Creating the Ideal Environment
Providing the correct light exposure is primary for a healthy Ceropegia woodii. This species thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking the dappled conditions of its native habitat in southern Africa. An east or west-facing window is ideal, offering several hours of sun without the intensity of midday rays.
The plant can tolerate some direct morning sunlight, which helps to maintain the vibrant coloration and compact spacing of the leaves along the vines. However, prolonged exposure to harsh afternoon sun can easily scorch the delicate foliage, resulting in bleached or crispy leaves. Insufficient light, conversely, causes the plant to stretch out, leading to elongated, pale stems with increased space between the heart-shaped leaves.
The String of Hearts prefers stable, warm conditions, ideally ranging between 60 and 80°F (15 to 27°C). Temperature fluctuations and cold drafts from doors or windows can stress the plant, so placement should avoid such areas. The plant can tolerate brief dips down to about 50°F (10°C), but consistent cool temperatures will slow growth and potentially cause damage.
Average household humidity levels, around 40 to 50%, are acceptable for this species. Unlike many tropical houseplants, the String of Hearts does not require high ambient moisture to flourish. While it can adapt to slightly lower humidity, there is no need for misting or specialized humidifiers.
Hydration and Soil Composition
Improper watering is the most common mistake when caring for a String of Hearts. Because this plant stores water in its leaves and root tubers, it is much more susceptible to root rot from overwatering than to drought damage. The preferred method is a “soak and dry” cycle, where the soil is allowed to dry out significantly between waterings.
The top one to two inches of the soil must feel dry to the touch before water is applied. When it is time to water, thoroughly soak the substrate until water flows freely from the drainage holes, then discard any excess collected in the saucer. Watering frequency naturally decreases during the cooler winter months when the plant enters a period of slower growth or dormancy.
The soil composition must promote rapid drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in saturated conditions. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix works well, as it is formulated to be gritty and porous. You can further enhance drainage by mixing in amendments like perlite, coarse sand, or horticultural grit to the standard potting mix.
The presence of drainage holes in the container is essential. During the active growing season, you can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. This feeding should be done sparingly, at most once a month, and diluted to half the strength recommended on the product label to prevent fertilizer burn.
Multiplying Your Plant
Propagating the String of Hearts creates new plants or achieves a fuller, denser look in the original pot. One common method involves stem cuttings, which should be taken from healthy vines and include at least two or three leaf nodes. The leaves on the bottom section of the cutting should be removed before the stem is placed in water or directly onto moist soil.
When rooting cuttings in water, ensure that the nodes are submerged, as this is where the new roots will emerge within a few weeks. If rooting directly into the soil, the nodes must be in contact with the substrate, which should be kept lightly moist until roots develop. Placing the cuttings in a location with bright, indirect light and warmth encourages faster establishment.
Another method uses the small, round aerial tubers, also known as bulbils, that form along the mature vines. These tubers are pre-programmed to root and can be gently removed or left attached to the mother plant. To propagate, simply press the tuber partially into the surface of a well-draining soil mix, ensuring it maintains contact with the damp substrate.
Once the tuber has rooted and new growth is visible, you can sever the connection to the parent plant. The String of Hearts can also be grown from seed, though this is the slowest method for starting a new specimen. The two primary methods offer practical ways to expand your collection.