How to care for: String of hearts (Ceropegia Woodii)

The Ceropegia Woodii, or as we call it the String of hearts, is a popular indoor plant. Its popularity is mainly due to its beautiful heart-shaped leaves. Originally the Ceropegia Woodii comes from South Africa, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. In nature the plant mainly grows on rocks. The most striking thing about the plant is that it is a real hanging plant. Ceropegia woodii has long stems that are getting longer and longer. The plant won't be really full unless you propagate the Ceropegia Woodii.

Medium light

Water once a week

Non-Toxic

Non Air-purifying

How do you take care of a String of hearts?

Location

The Ceropegia Woodii likes to be placed in a spot with lots of light. It is best to place the plant in medium bright light. The Ceropegia Woodii prefers a spot next to a window on the west or east. A spot near the south is of course also possible. Make sure that the plant is at least 2 metres away from the window. A spot near the north probably has too little light. Don’t forget to turn the plant regularly! The plant grows towards the sun. If you do not rotate the plant it will only get full on one side.

Watering

Although the plant does not look like it, the Ceropegia Woodii is a succulent plant. This means that the plant does not like wet feet. In any case, do not water more than once a week. Once every 10 days is most sufficient. Let the soil dry a little before each watering. In winter you may water once every two weeks. That’s more than enough. It's best to add small amounts instead of too much water.

Plant nutrition

The String of hearts doesn't use a lot of energy. As a result, the plant is not in need of a lot extra nutrients. However, you can provide some extra nutrients by some plant nutrition. We recommend giving plant nutrition once a month on a reduced amount. In autumn and winter it is better not to add extra nutrients. In the autumn, plant nutrition can actually be harmful.

Repotting

Repotting the String of hearts isn't necessary every year. The plant is not a fast grower. We recommend repotting the String of hearts every 2-3 years. Repotting the plant gives new nutrients and more room for root growth. The airier soil is also very good for the water flowing through. The best period to repot is spring.

Temperature

The most ideal temperature for a String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii) is typically between 18 to 29 degrees Celsius. It prefers a warm and moderate climate.

Pruning

Pruning a String of Hearts helps remove any old or overgrown vines, encourages branching, and promotes a fuller and more compact plant. Trimming back excessive growth can also help maintain an attractive shape.

How fast does a String of Hearts grow?

The stems of a String of Hearts can grow very fast in length. The plant can grow very tall. About 3.5 metres should be possible! Despite its length, the plant will not become very full by itself. You can achieve a full plant by adding cuttings from the plant to the pot.

What are the tubers in my String of Hearts?

If the String of Hearts is older, it can grow tubers. These brown tubers often grow where there used to be leaves. The nice thing about the tubers is that new plants can grow from them.

Can you propagate a String of Hearts?

Yes, you certainly can. See our tips on how to propagate the String of Hearts.