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Perennial

String of Hearts

Ceropegia woodii

Chain of HeartsRosary VineHearts-on-a-StringSweetheart VineCollar of Hearts

String of Hearts is a charming trailing succulent with heart-shaped leaves and delicate tubular flowers, symbolizing lasting love, connection, and the bonds of affection.

Plant Family

Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)

Blooming

Summer to fall (June-October)

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Cascading String of Hearts plant showing heart-shaped variegated leaves and delicate tubular flowers
Cascading String of Hearts plant showing heart-shaped variegated leaves and delicate tubular flowers

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Lasting love
Connection
Unbreakable bonds
Devotion
Romantic affection
Good fortune

Perfect For

Valentine's Day giftsAnniversary celebrationsExpressions of lasting loveHousewarming gifts for couples

Color Meanings

Heart-shaped leaves:Love, affection, and emotional connection
Pink-purple flowers:Romantic love and gentle devotion
Trailing vines:Continuous connection and lasting bonds

Similar flowers: stephanotiss and lavenders also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Represents the journey of true love and the unbreakable connection between people who share deep affection. In some traditions, these delicate vines are talismans believed to attract good fortune and prosperity. Popular symbol of enduring relationships and emotional connections.

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 0.5 inches long (1.2 cm), small tubular flowers
Plant Size: Trailing vines up to 3 feet long (90 cm), compact tuber base
Flower Shape: Small tubular flowers with inflated base and narrow opening, lantern-like

Natural Habitat

Native to: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Eswatini
Habitat: Rocky outcrops and cliff faces in native habitat; popular hanging houseplant
Climate: Subtropical, Arid, Indoor cultivation

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Bright, indirect light; some morning sun acceptable

Water

Low to moderate; allow soil to dry between waterings, drought tolerant

Soil

Well-draining, Sandy, Succulent mix, Slightly alkaline

Expert Growing Tips

1

Allow soil to dry completely between waterings

2

Propagate easily from stem cuttings or tubers along vine

3

Pinch back to encourage fuller growth

4

Survives in low humidity indoor conditions

5

Reduce watering significantly in winter

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Hanging baskets and trailing displays
  • Popular houseplant for bright windows
  • Succulent arrangements and collections
  • Valentine's Day and romantic gifts
  • Cascading container gardens

Traditional Uses

  • No traditional medicinal uses documented
  • Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions about the String of Hearts

what does String of Hearts symbolize?

String of Hearts symbolizes lasting love, unbreakable connections, and devotion, with its heart-shaped leaves representing the enduring bonds of affection.

how do you care for String of Hearts?

Care for String of Hearts by providing bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

does String of Hearts flower?

Yes, String of Hearts produces small, tubular pink-purple flowers in summer and fall, though they're less showy than the distinctive heart-shaped leaves.

is String of Hearts good for beginners?

Yes, String of Hearts is excellent for beginners as it's drought-tolerant, easy to propagate, and thrives in typical indoor conditions.

Available Colors

Pink-purple
Magenta
White-pink

Quick Facts

Type:perennial
Family:Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)
Native to:South Africa
Blooms:Summer to fall (June-October)

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