String of Heart Plants

Last updated on February 8th, 2025 at 05:20 pm

The String of Heart Plants (Ceropegia woodii), also called hearts on a string, is a fast-growing indoor vine that does well during the mid-summer months. So, does it do well the rest of the year? Yes, it does as long as your water, fertilize, and look for problems year-round. It also goes by many names: Rosary Vine, Chain of Hearts, and Sweetheart Vine.

It is a beautiful vine that droops, and trails over pots, or in a hanging container. The leaves on this plant are heart-shaped thus its name. It is a succulent meaning the stems and leaves will retain water. Always use cactus or succulent soil for repotting.

Where to place this plant?

Place it on a window sill where the stems and leaves can droop down the wall. Most nurseries will have this plant on a hanging pot so, hang it somewhere in a room where it can get plenty of indirect sunshine. Direct sun for more than 3 hours or so and the plant will get sunscald. It is perfect on a top shelf where the leaves can trail over. It also does well in an office setting where it can get plenty of artificial light.

Water about once per week during the winter season and twice during the late spring and summer months. Ensure your pot drains well as it will develop root rot thus damaging the plant.

It is a good plant for propagation purposes. Just trim off one of the stems just above the heart-shaped leaf. Place the cutting in water first, and leave it there until you see small fiber roots coming out. This could be 3 or 4 weeks before it is ready. Then place it in a small plastic pot with good houseplant succulent soil. Water about twice per week until the cutting takes root. You can also place the cutting in water first

Care of String of Heart Plants

Yellowing of leaves – Probably overwatering. let the soil dry out before watering again. Fertilize with a good houseplant fertilizer. Water about once per week more often in hotter climates or rooms without A/C.

Too much spacing between leaves – Move it to a place where there is more sunlight but no direct sun.

Leaves are wilting – It is not getting enough water… again about once per week.

What Makes the String of Hearts Unique?

The String of Hearts, or Ceropegia woodii, is a plant that instantly grabs your attention. Its cascading vines and delicate, heart-shaped leaves aren’t just pretty; they bring charm and a minimalist vibe to any indoor space. But beyond its looks, there’s so much that makes this plant special. Let’s dive into what gives this beloved plant its “wow” factor.

Light Preferences

The String of Hearts loves bright, indirect light. It’s the sweet spot between too much and too little light. Placing it near a window with filtered sunlight—like a south or west-facing window—can keep its vines vibrant and growing. If you let it sit under direct sunlight all day, its delicate leaves might scorch. But, if it’s in too much shade, you’ll notice slower growth and less of that gorgeous trailing effect. Got sheer curtains? Those are a handy tool for diffusing direct sunlight while still giving the plant what it needs.

Propagating String of Hearts Plants

Ever wanted more of those charming vines in your home or to gift a plant to a friend? Propagation is not just easy; it’s incredibly satisfying. The String of Hearts is one of those plants that practically propagates itself with a little care.

Here’s the step-by-step guide:

Choose a healthy vine with a couple of nodes. Nodes are critical because they’re where new roots will form.
Cut the vine just below a node using sterilized scissors.
Prepare a container with water or moist soil (either works). If you love seeing roots form, water propagation is more fun and visual.
Place the node in water or press it lightly into the soil. Make sure the leaves stay above the surface to avoid rot.
Keep the container in a warm spot with bright, indirect light.
In about 2-3 weeks, you’ll notice roots forming! If using soil, check gently to confirm root growth.

The best time for propagation? Spring and summer, when the plant is in its active growing phase. This gives the baby plant the best chance at thriving. Once the roots are about an inch long, you can transplant the cutting into well-draining soil, just like its parent plant.

Dealing with Pests

Pests like spider mites and aphids can occasionally set up camp on your String of Hearts. How can you tell if these uninvited guests are making themselves at home? Look for signs like:

Tiny webbing on the leaves or vines (usually a sign of spider mites).
Sticky residue or clusters of small green, white, or black insects—these are often aphids.
Yellowing leaves or stunted growth.
Mealybugs – It is susceptible to mealybugs a white scaly-looking insect. From a distance, it looks like cotton a closer look and you can see the scale insects. Take outside and spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Scale Insect on citrus stem

Most larger Home and Garden Nurseries will have this plant available. Furthermore, the String of Heart plants are native to Southern Africa. Read more over at Wisconsin Horticulture.

Conclusion

The String of Hearts plant is a showstopper, combining beauty with low-maintenance care. Its delicate vines and heart-shaped leaves make it an easy favorite for any home.

With the right balance of light, water, and love, this plant becomes a cherished part of your indoor collection. Its resilience and charm prove you don’t need expert skills to grow something stunning.

If you’re looking for more inspiration or guidance on indoor plants, explore Indoor House Plant Names. Bring some heart into your space—your plant journey is about to bloom!