String of Hearts Variegated

🌿 String of Hearts Variegated, scientifically known as Ceropegia woodii 'Variegata', belongs to the Apocynaceae family and originates from the semi-arid regions of southern Africa, where it grows as a trailing succulent under tree canopies and rocky outcrops. This beginner-friendly plant features cascading vines adorned with heart-shaped leaves splashed with cream, pink, and green variegation. Fun fact: the tuberous roots of this plant store water and nutrients, allowing it to survive extended periods of drought in its natural habitat.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This trailing succulent produces delicate vines that can cascade several feet in length, making it perfect for hanging baskets or elevated shelves. The small, heart-shaped leaves appear in opposite pairs along thin, purple-tinted stems. Variegated forms display a stunning mix of creamy white, soft pink, and sage green colours across each leaf. The foliage has a slightly succulent texture with a waxy surface that helps retain moisture.
FLOWER DETAILS
The tubular flowers of String of Hearts Variegated are small and uniquely shaped, resembling tiny lanterns in shades of magenta and purple. They have a subtle, pleasant fragrance and appear sporadically throughout the growing season, typically in late summer and autumn. While the flowers are delicate and not the main attraction, they add unexpected charm to the cascading vines. To encourage flowering, provide bright indirect light and allow the plant to experience a slight temperature drop in autumn, mimicking its natural seasonal cycle.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light for 6-8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun, which intensifies variegation
💧 Water: Water deeply when soil is completely dry, roughly every 2-3 weeks in summer, monthly in winter. Bottom watering works well to avoid wetting foliage
🌡️ Humidity: Average home humidity of 40-50% is perfectly adequate; no special requirements
🪴 Soil: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or pumice for extra drainage
🏺 Potting: Shallow terracotta or ceramic pots with drainage holes, 10-15 cm wide. Repot every 2-3 years or when roots fill container
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate growth producing 15-30 cm of new vine length in 6 months, 30-60 cm per year. Mature vines can reach 2-3 metres in length
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Monthly during spring and summer with diluted succulent fertilizer at half strength. No feeding in autumn or winter
🐾 Pet friendly: No, mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhea
WHERE TO PUT IT
String of Hearts Variegated thrives on bright windowsills, in hanging planters near south or west-facing windows, or on high shelves where its trailing vines can cascade freely. It works beautifully in bedrooms, living rooms, home offices, or bathrooms with adequate natural light. Avoid placing it in dark corners, low-light hallways, or areas with cold drafts from air conditioning vents or exterior doors during winter months.