Heart-shaped foliage, known botanically as cordate, is a popular aesthetic choice for indoor spaces. This soft, welcoming leaf morphology instantly elevates a room’s design. The appealing shape is not exclusive to a single species but appears across several distinct families of tropical and semi-tropical plants. Understanding the subtle differences between these popular indoor varieties allows for better identification and appropriate selection.
Vining Plants: The Most Common Heart Shapes
The majority of heart-shaped houseplants are vining plants, primarily from the genus Epipremnum (Pothos) and Philodendron. These plants are often confused due to their similar trailing habits and general leaf shape, but structural details offer clear distinctions. The Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) typically exhibits a leaf that is thinner and softer to the touch. It possesses a more pronounced inward curve at its base, creating a classic, defined heart outline.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), in contrast, has leaves that are notably thicker and possess a waxy texture. A key identifier is the petiole, the small stem connecting the leaf to the main vine. Pothos petioles have a distinct indent or groove running along their length, while the Heartleaf Philodendron petiole is smooth and fully rounded.
The method of new growth is also a reliable way to differentiate these two common aroids. New Philodendron leaves emerge protected by a thin, papery sheath called a cataphyll, which eventually dries up and falls off. Pothos leaves do not use a cataphyll; they unfurl directly from the previous leaf’s petiole, often appearing tightly curled before expanding.
Succulents and Bulbs with Heart-Shaped Leaves
Beyond the popular vining aroids, the heart shape appears in species with different growth habits, including succulents and tuberous plants. The Sweetheart Hoya (Hoya kerrii) is a slow-growing succulent vine, often sold as a single, rooted leaf for holidays like Valentine’s Day. This thick, waxy leaf is a perfect heart shape, though a single leaf cutting rarely develops into a full vining plant without a stem node present.
Caladiums are another group featuring the cordate leaf form, grown from underground tubers. These plants are known for their large, paper-thin leaves displaying vibrant patterns of white, pink, red, and green. Specific cultivars, such as ‘Sweetheart’ or ‘Blushing Bride,’ are bred for intense coloration on the classic heart-shaped foliage. Caladiums are seasonal, requiring a period of dormancy where the foliage dies back before the tuber regrows new leaves.
Essential Care Tips for Heart-Shaped Foliage
Caring for heart-shaped foliage, especially tropical vining varieties, involves recreating their native rainforest environment. The majority thrive best in bright, indirect light, as direct sun can scorch the leaf tissue and diminish color or variegation. Placing plants near an east or west-facing window, or several feet away from a southern exposure, provides ideal conditions.
Overwatering is a common mistake that quickly leads to root decline in these tropical plants. Allow the top inch or two of the potting mix to dry out completely between thorough waterings. Providing elevated humidity is beneficial for maintaining foliage integrity and preventing brown, crispy edges. Techniques like grouping plants, using a pebble tray, or regular misting help raise the ambient moisture levels.
Identifying Toxic Varieties
When selecting heart-shaped indoor plants, toxicity is a serious consideration for many common varieties. Numerous popular species, including Pothos and Philodendron, belong to the Araceae family, known as aroids. These plants contain microscopic, needle-like structures called raphides, which are crystals of insoluble calcium oxalate.
When ingested, these crystals are released and mechanically penetrate the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. This causes immediate irritation, burning, and swelling, which can lead to difficulty swallowing. To ensure the safety of household pets and small children, place all aroids out of reach, such as on high shelves or in hanging baskets, or choose non-toxic alternatives like the Hoya kerrii.