String of hearts

Ceropegia woodii · Succulent

Quick answer: Water: Every 2–3 weeks, when the mix is dry (estimated). Light: Bright light; an east, west or south window. Soil: Cactus and succulent mix or extra perlite. Pets: No separate ASPCA record; it is not generally known to be toxic. It is still best to keep pets from chewing it. If in doubt, ask your vet.

A trailing succulent vine with small heart-shaped, silver-marbled leaves on thin stems that can hang 3 ft or more. It stores water in small tubers, so it forgives missed waterings far better than soggy soil.

Care at a glance

Light

Bright light; an east, west or south window

Water

Water deeply only when the mix has dried out

Soil

Cactus and succulent mix or extra perlite

Temperature

Keep above 60 °F in winter

Pot size

4–6 in hanging pot (estimated)

Container

Shallow pot with drainage holes

Growth

Trails 3 ft or more; up to 4 in tall

Lifespan

Perennial; many years indoors (estimated)

When?

Repot or take cuttings in spring or early summer while the plant is actively growing. It can spend summer outdoors in shade if brought in before the first frost.

Step by step

1. Use a pot with drainage holes and a gritty cactus mix.
2. Place it in bright light; strong light gives darker, more patterned leaves.
3. Soak the mix thoroughly, then wait until it is dry before watering again.
4. In winter, water much less and stop feeding to let the plant rest.
5. During growth, feed a few times with a low-nitrogen liquid feed; follow the product label instructions.
6. For new plants, take 4–6 in stem cuttings in early summer and root them in cactus mix at 72–77 °F.
7. Or press a stem tuber into moist mix, still attached; cut it free once it roots.
8. If moving it outside for summer, acclimate gradually to avoid sunburn.

Common problems

Pets

No separate ASPCA record; it is not generally known to be toxic. It is still best to keep pets from chewing it. If in doubt, ask your vet.

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