String of Hearts Care
Ceropegia woodii (rosary vine)
At a glance
| βοΈ Light | Bright, with some gentle direct sun. |
|---|---|
| π§ Water | When the soil is fully dry. |
| πͺ΄ Soil | Gritty: our Arid Potting Mix. |
| π‘οΈ Temp | 15β27Β°C. |
| π¨ Humidity | Average is fine. |
| πΎ Pets | Pet safe Non-toxic to cats and dogs. |
| π± Care level | Easy Pet safe |
| π Grows to | Trails 1β2 m. |
String of hearts has tiny heart-shaped leaves marbled with silver and purple, on thin vines that can trail a couple of metres. It's a semi-succulent, so it stores water and forgives a missed watering, and it's safe for pets.
Light + placement
Bright light with some gentle direct sun (morning or evening) keeps the leaves close together and well coloured. In low light the vines get long and sparse with small leaves.
Watering
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. The leaves and the little potato-like tubers store water. Leaves that feel soft and thin mean it's thirsty; yellow, mushy leaves mean too much water.
Soil + repotting
A gritty, fast-draining mix like our Arid Potting Mix in a small pot with drainage. They like to be snug. Repot only when crowded.
Feeding + upkeep
Feed every month or two in spring and summer at half strength. Trim vines to keep them tidy and use the cuttings to fill the pot.
Propagation
Lay a vine across moist soil and the little aerial tubers along the vine will root. Or root cuttings in water. See Propagation 101.
Common problems
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow, mushy leaves | Overwatering | Let it dry completely between waterings. |
| Long bare vines, small leaves | Not enough light | Move to a brighter spot with some sun. |
| Soft, thin leaves | Thirsty | Water deeply. |
| Leaves losing colour | Low light | More light brings back the silver and purple. |
| Vines tangled | Normal | Gently untangle or trim. |
Varieties we carry
We carry green and variegated string of hearts. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.
None in stock online right now. New plants arrive every week, so check back soon or ask us in the shop.
Frequently asked questions
Is string of hearts safe for pets?
Yes. It's non-toxic to cats and dogs.
How often should I water it?
Only when the soil is fully dry, usually every 2β3 weeks.
What are the little balls on the vines?
Aerial tubers. They store water and can grow into new plants.
Why is my plant thin on top?
Low light or age. Coil vines on the soil to fill it in.
String of Hearts care kit
- Arid Potting Mix: Our fast-draining Soil Bar mix for plants that like to dry out.
- Squeezy Watering Bottle: Precise watering for small pots and terrariums.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11β5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β
More plant care guides
String of Turtles Β· Maidenhair Fern Β· Philodendron Birkin Β· Bird's Nest Fern Β· Spider Plant Β· Jade Plant Β· Lucky Bamboo Β· Rabbit's Foot Fern Β· All plant care β