String of Hearts Care

Placement

PRO TIP: The String of Hearts loves to trail! Pot it in a hanging vessel and position it in the window for the most impressive look.

The String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii) is a trailing succulent-like plant native to South Africa. The delicate heart-shaped foliage and slender vines can reach up to 12' long in its natural environment, and has earned this plant many nicknames, including Rosary Vine and Sweetheart Vine.

Place your String of Hearts where it can receive plenty of bright indirect light. Small doses of direct sun are good, however too much direct sun can scorch the leaves. This plant is not suitable for lower light environments. A few feet removed from a southern or western-facing window is ideal, or directly in a northern or eastern-facing window will also suffice.

If you are unsure of the lighting conditions in your home or office, check out our guide for how to measure light in your space.

With the right environment and care, the fast-growing String of Hearts can quickly create a uniquely beautiful beaded curtain effect with its dangling heart-shaped foliage and frequent pink and magenta blooms.

Routine Maintenance

PRO TIP: “When in doubt, let it drought!” If the soil feels slightly moist and you are unsure whether or not to water, the safest bet is to wait and check back in a few days.

Always be sure to assess your plant’s watering needs upon receiving it. Before giving your plant a drink, it is best to check the moisture level in the soil first to ensure it isn’t moist right beneath the surface. Also, consider aerating the soil of your plant before the initial watering. We compact the soil to avoid shifting during transit, so aerating can help the soil breathe and allow moisture to be released.

The String of Hearts plant has a succulent-like nature, so they prefer periods of drought between waterings. When the soil is dry 2/3 of the way down in the pot, then the plant is ready for a drink. In the winter months it’s best to allow the soil to dry completely through the pot as these plants go into a dormancy, even indoors. They are sensitive to root rot and overwatering, so when in doubt let it drought.

Rotate your plant periodically to ensure even growth on all sides and dust the leaves often so the plant can photosynthesize efficiently. When dusting the leaves, also take the opportunity to inspect the undersides and keep an eye out for pests.

Remember each plant is a unique living thing and may have varying needs, especially in their individual locations. Pay attention to the condition of your String of Hearts and its watering needs and you will have a long and happy relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if I am underwatering my String of Hearts?

String of Hearts plants store water in their leaves, so a good indicator to watch for is the leaves beginning to soften and look a little wilted and deflated.

How can I tell if I have overwatered my plant?

Overwatering tends to result in yellowing of the leaves and eventually leaf loss. If you suspect you have overwatered your plant, aerate, hold off on watering until the soil has fully dried — potentially up to a month — then refer to the care guide to get back on to a proper watering routine.

How can I get my String of Hearts to flower?

The String of Hearts has tiny deep Magenta-colored flowers that they can produce indoors yearly. Providing proper care for your plant and adding fertilizer spring through fall can help kick it into bloom. Just be sure not to be too heavy handed with the fertilizer as this can burn the plant. Follow the package instruction for a liquid houseplant fertilizer.

How often should I fertilize my plant?

In general, house plants will thrive when they are fertilized spring through fall. Fertilize once a month with an organic houseplant fertilizer, following the package instructions for dilution and administration. Greenery NYC uses an organic potting mix with a slow release fertilizer in the soil, so your plant will not need fertilizer within the first 6 months of receiving it.

How often does my plant need to be repotted?

For smaller desktop plants, we suggest repotting once every 12-18 months. Typically you want to choose a potting vessel 1”- 2” larger in diameter to allow for growth. Don’t choose a pot much larger than the previous as this could drown the plant's roots. If you prefer to maintain the current size of your plant, repot into the same vessel, providing new soil and trimming away some roots and foliage. Spring or summer is the ideal time to repot as the plant is at its strongest.
For larger floor plants, we suggest repotting every 18-24 months. Typically you want to choose a potting vessel 2”- 4” larger in diameter to allow for growth. Don’t choose a pot much larger than the previous as this could drown the plants roots. If you prefer to maintain the current size of your plant, repot into the same vessel, providing new soil and trimming away some roots and foliage. Spring or summer is the ideal time to repot as the plant is at its strongest.