Ceropegia Woodii - Care Advice

Ceropegia woodii

Delicate, charming, and surprisingly tough – String of Hearts is a much-loved trailing houseplant that brings a gentle, romantic feel to any space. Its dainty heart-shaped leaves grow along thin, wiry vines that can tumble down several feet if you let them, or be looped back up for a fuller look. In nature, it spreads as it grows, covering ground with its pretty vines. Despite its fragile appearance, this plant is anything but fussy. Native to South Africa, it’s technically a succulent, with tiny bead-like tubers that form along the stems and under the soil. These help it store water, making it well-suited to life on a sunny windowsill and perfect for anyone who might forget to water now and again.

Light:
Ceropegia woodii thrives in a spot near an East or West facing window and can handle a little gentle direct sun (especially morning sun). Lower light will slow growth and may cause the vines to stretch out with larger gaps between leaves.

Water:
Let the soil dry out fully between waterings. This plant is more tolerant of drought than overwatering. If the pot feels very light and the leaves start to feel soft or curl slightly, it’s time to give it a soak. Water less frequently in winter.

Soil:
Go for a well-draining mix, like cactus and succulent soil, to keep the roots happy. A chunky houseplant mix with added grit or perlite will also work well. Avoid anything that holds too much moisture.

Temperature:
String of Hearts is happy in typical household temperatures between 18–25°C. It doesn’t love the cold, so keep it away from draughty windows or doors during winter.

Feeding:
Feed once a month in spring and summer with a diluted liquid fertiliser. No need to feed in winter when the plant is resting.

A few last notes:
You might spot unusual tubular flowers in late summer or early autumn—they’re pale pink with darker tips and look a little like lanterns. While small, they’re a lovely bonus! Over time, this plant can grow quite long, but you can trim it to your desired shape and even use the cuttings to propagate new plants. It’s also non-toxic, making it a great choice for pet-friendly homes.