If you’re on the lookout for charming and unique succulents to add to your collection, consider the ‘String of Hearts’ (Ceropegia woodii) and the ‘Million Hearts Plant’ (Dischidia ruscifolia). These succulents have heart shaped leaves that are not only visually appealing but also relatively easy to take care of. Let’s dive into what makes these sweet plants special and how to care for them.
String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii):
‘String of Hearts’ Ceropegia woodii is also known as the Rosary Vine or Chain of Hearts. It’s a trailing succulent with leaves that are shaped like hearts and grow on long, delicate stems. The leaves are usually green, but they can have hints of silver or purple, which adds a touch of elegance to the plant. The thin stems drape gracefully, making it a great choice for hanging baskets or trailing over shelves. I have pots of these hanging above my kitchen sink and in my jungle themed bathroom.
Source: Etsy
Light and Temperature Requirements:
To keep ‘String of Hearts’ Ceropegia woodii healthy, place it in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the delicate leaves. Position it near a window that gets filtered, bright light throughout the day. When it comes to temperature, this heart shaped succulent prefers average to warm conditions, between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Source: Etsy
Watering and Soil:
As a succulent, String of Hearts’ Ceropegia woodii doesn’t need much water. Allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings, and then water the plant thoroughly, making sure any excess water can drain away. Finding the right balance between underwatering and overwatering is crucial. Use a well-draining soil mix designed for succulents, or mix regular potting soil with perlite or pumice for better drainage.
Source: Etsy
Propagation and Growth:
String of Hearts’ Ceropegia woodii is easy to propagate, which is why it’s popular among succulent enthusiasts. You can take stem cuttings, let them form calluses for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the cuttings slightly moist until roots develop. This heart shaped succulent can also create small tubers along its stems, which can be gently detached and planted to grow new plants. With proper care, the String of Hearts can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) long.
Source: Etsy
Million Hearts Plant (Dischidia ruscifolia):
‘Million Hearts Plant’, also known as Dischidia ruscifolia, is another heart-shaped succulent that’s captivating. Its leaves are small and fleshy, resembling hearts, with a shiny texture. While the heart shaped leaves are typically green, some varieties might have silver or variegated patterns, adding visual interest.
Source: Etsy
Light and Temperature Requirements:
For ‘Million Hearts Plant’ Dischidia ruscifolia to thrive, place it in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate lower light conditions, but it grows best with bright, filtered light to enhance leaf coloration. Just like the String of Hearts, shield this succulent from direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching. In terms of temperature, it prefers room temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
Source: Etsy
Watering and Soil:
Similar to most succulents, ‘Million Hearts Plant’ Dischidia ruscifolia doesn’t need a lot of water. It can, however, stay wet longer than most other succulents as it is epiphytic and grows in the jungles of the Philippines. Allow the soil to partially dry between waterings, and then water thoroughly while ensuring excess water drains away. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Opt for well-draining succulent soil or create a mix of regular potting soil with perlite or pumice to improve drainage.
Source: Etsy
Propagation and Growth:
You can propagate ‘Million Hearts Plant’ Dischidia ruscifolia through stem cuttings or layering. For stem cuttings, let the cut ends callus for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Alternatively, you can secure a stem to the soil with a paperclip or stake until roots develop, then separate it from the parent plant. With proper care, this heart shaped succulent can transform into a stunning trailing vine.
Source: Etsy
I’ll be propagating the long stems on mine soon and will keep y’all posted on the progress. I’ve been lucky enough to have this succulent in its variegated form for a couple of years on my kitchen window ledge and it is getting wild and out of control so I need to tame it. It just got a deep watering, so I’ll be waiting until the leaves plump back up before taking any cuttings. It’s very important to take cuttings from healthy, well hydrated leaves since there won’t be any roots to take up any water initially.
The Two Heart Shaped Succulents That Captured MY Heart
‘String of Hearts’ Ceropegia woodii and ‘Million Hearts Plant’ Dischidia ruscifolia are two captivating succulents with heart shaped leaves that will undoubtedly capture your heart. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light and have low water requirements. With their unique features and relatively easy care, they are excellent choices for both beginner and experienced succulent enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the cascading beauty of the String of Hearts or the glossy leaves of the Million Hearts Plant, these heart-shaped succulents will add a delightful touch to your home or garden.
