String of heart plant - Ceropegia woodii Variegata

The Ceropegia woodii 'Variegata' is an elegant variegated form of the 'String of Hearts', a houseplant that bears small heart-shaped leaves on trailing stems. This truly graceful little succulent plant has few rivals when it comes to adding an elegant botanical touch to your décor, particularly in a hanging basket or on a shelf.

Belonging to the Apocynaceae family (like periwinkles), the Ceropegia woodii is a perennial succulent with underground tubers that serve as water reserves, an adaptation to its native habitat. Its slender, purple, and sparsely ramified stems can reach up to 2 metres in length, cascading beautifully when grown in a hanging pot. The 'Variegata' cultivar opposite and heart-shaped leaves measure about 1 to 2 cm wide. They display an attractive variegation, blending deep green, creamy white, and pale pink hues, with a slightly fleshy texture. The growth rate of the Ceropegia woodii 'Variegata' is moderate, gradually spreading over the seasons. Flowering occurs mainly in summer. The tubular flowers, approximately 2 cm long, exhibit a pale pink to mauve colour, with darker patterns at the tips. They feature a unique structure reminiscent of a small lantern characteristic of the Ceropegia genus. The name 'Ceropegia' derives from the Greek 'kero' (wax) and pege' (fountain), alluding to the waxy appearance and shape of the flowers.

Native to the semi-arid regions of southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini, the Ceropegia woodii grows naturally on rocky outcrops, benefiting from optimal drainage and bright exposure.

The Ceropegia woodii 'Variegata' is easy to grow indoors in bright light near an east or west-facing window without direct sunlight. It tolerates the dry atmosphere of homes well and does not require misting. Ideal temperatures range between 16 and 21°C, and it can tolerate peaks up to 30°C in summer, provided that watering is adjusted. In winter, avoid temperatures below 10°C.

The variegated String of Hearts is particularly striking when grown in a hanging basket, allowing its trailing stems to create an airy decorative effect. It can also be placed on a high shelf or piece of furniture, with its stems cascading freely. To create a harmonious ensemble, pair it with plants such as the Curio radicans (String of Bananas) with its trailing habit and miniature banana-shaped leaves, or the Hoya linearis with its delicate trailing stems and soft, graphic foliage. With its elongated, flexible stems resembling rat tails, the Aporocactus flagelliformis will perfectly complements this trio. These three plants thrive in bright indirect light, infrequent watering, and a very well-draining substrate—ideal for a spectacular yet low-maintenance hanging display.