How to Grow String of Hearts
Wikimedia Commons
String of Hearts
Ceropegia woodii
vineString of Hearts is a delicate, trailing succulent vine native to South Africa, known for its heart-shaped leaves that grow along slender stems. The plant produces unique tubular flowers in shades of purple and white. It's an excellent choice for hanging baskets and indoor cultivation.
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Example String of Hearts timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant String of Hearts
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest String of Hearts
Around Apr 21≈ 4 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact String of Hearts dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11b; primarily grown indoors in colder climates
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Establishment
3-4 weeksNewly planted cuttings or young plants are small and fragile with minimal leaf coverage
Keep soil lightly moist (not soggy) for first 2-3 weeks; provide bright, indirect light; avoid fertilizing; mist occasionally if humidity is very low
Vegetative Growth
6-12 weeksPlant develops new heart-shaped leaves along stems; stems become longer and more established; tubers may form along stems
Water when soil is completely dry; provide bright, indirect light; apply diluted succulent fertilizer monthly during spring and summer; pinch stems to encourage bushier growth if desired
Trailing/Trailing Growth
Ongoing throughout growing seasonStems elongate significantly, creating the characteristic cascading effect; leaf size and spacing become more consistent
Support trailing growth with hanging baskets or shelving; continue regular watering schedule; fertilize monthly spring through early fall; rotate plant weekly for even growth
Flowering
4-8 weeks (summer)Small, tubular flowers appear along stems in shades of purple, pink, or white; flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators outdoors
Maintain consistent watering and bright light; do not fertilize during flowering to avoid promoting foliage over flowers; flowers appear mainly in summer months
Dormancy
3-4 months (fall/winter)Growth slows significantly; leaf color may deepen; stems may appear less vigorous
Reduce watering frequency; cease fertilizing; maintain cooler temperatures if possible (55-65°F); provide adequate light but no supplemental feeding
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate infected plants; apply rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs to affected areas
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Increase humidity; spray leaves with water; apply neem oil weekly; mist regularly to deter infestations
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Remove manually with soft brush; treat with horticultural oil; apply insecticidal soap; monitor closely for reinfestation
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; neem oil applications; isolate affected plants
Uses
Interior Decoration & Air Purification
HouseholdString of Hearts is popular as a hanging basket plant, shelf trailer, or terrarium plant for home decor. Its delicate appearance adds visual interest to indoor spaces and provides modest air purification benefits. [source]
Low-Maintenance Houseplant
HouseholdIdeal for beginners and busy plant parents due to its drought tolerance and forgiving nature. Requires minimal watering, fertilizing, and pruning compared to many indoor plants. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe tubular flowers attract insects and hummingbirds when grown outdoors in warm climates, making it a valuable addition to gardens for supporting pollinator populations. [source]
Terrarium & Container Gardening
CraftString of Hearts is an excellent choice for fairy gardens, hanging terrariums, and decorative succulent arrangements. Its trailing habit and small leaves create elegant, cascading displays. [source]
Traditional Medicinal Uses
MedicinalIn South African traditional medicine, Ceropegia woodii has been used to support wound healing and general wellness, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not a harvest plant; propagation is the main 'harvest' method. Propagate by taking 4-6 inch stem cuttings and allowing them to dry for 1-2 days before inserting into well-draining soil. Propagation is successful year-round but easiest in spring and summer. The small tuberous nodes along stems can also be propagated—these nodes are viable propagation material.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 String of Hearts gets its name from the distinctive heart-shaped leaves that grow along threadlike stems, resembling a delicate string of tiny hearts.
- 🌱 The plant produces unique parachute-like seed pods that are translucent and papery, dispersing seeds on the wind in nature.
- 🌱 In its native South Africa, Ceropegia woodii produces fragrant flowers that are pollinated by insects, and the plant forms underground tubers that help it survive drought conditions.
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