Variegated String of Hearts

Ceropegia woodii, commonly called string of hearts, is a trailing succulent vine native to South Africa known for its delicate heart-shaped leaves patterned with silver marbling over a green surface and purple-toned stems. What makes this plant special is its cascading growth habit—long, graceful vines covered in tiny hearts that can trail several feet while remaining light and airy.

Light drives both leaf spacing and color. Place it in an east or south-facing window where it receives bright, consistent light with some gentle direct sun. Under grow lights, use 5000K–6500K placed 8–12 inches from the top of the plant. In lower light, the vines stretch, the spacing between leaves increases, and the silver pattern becomes less pronounced. Strong light keeps the vines fuller, the leaves closer together, and often brings out purple tones on the stems and undersides.

Watering should be minimal and controlled. Allow the soil to dry out most of the way between waterings, then water thoroughly and let it drain, using a fast-draining mix of succulent soil, perlite, and orchid bark. The small tubers along the vines and beneath the soil store water, making this plant more drought tolerant than it appears. If leaves become thin, soft, or slightly taco-shaped, it’s ready for water. If leaves yellow and drop while the soil is wet, the roots are staying too saturated.

This plant communicates clearly through its vines. Tight leaf spacing and strong silver patterning indicate healthy light levels. Long bare sections between leaves signal it needs more light. Wrinkled leaves mean it has dried out too far, while mushy stems or widespread leaf drop point to excess moisture. If you notice small round tubers forming on the vines, that is a sign of a healthy, established plant.