LightString of Hearts grows best in bright, indirect light…
WaterLet the potting mix dry completely before watering String…
ToxicitySafe for cats & dogs
Mature sizeIts trailing stems eventually measure 1…
String of Hearts is a trailing succulent grown for its long, cascading stems. Each stem carries plump, heart-shaped leaves with green upper surfaces. Pinkish-purple coloring appears beneath the leaves and along the stems. Its flowing habit suits hanging baskets, tall shelves, and plant stands. This easy-care choice works well for anyone who can provide bright filtered light and let the soil dry fully between waterings.
Care data checked 25 September 2026 · Dany · A-Z Plants
Light requirements
String of Hearts grows best in bright, indirect light measuring 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹. Enough light helps maintain compact leaves and strong trailing growth.
Place it 5 ft / 1.5m from a south, west or east-facing window.
Choose a position without a direct view of the sky. If sun reaches the foliage, soften it with a sheer curtain.
Weak light may cause sparse growth and wider gaps between leaves.
A PAR meter or PAR meter app can measure photosynthetically active radiation as PPFD (μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹).
Watering
Let the potting mix dry completely before watering String of Hearts. Its succulent leaves store moisture, so frequent watering is more harmful than a short dry spell.
Check moisture at several depths with a knitting needle or chopstick. Do not judge the pot by its surface alone.
Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water. Water fully until it flows through the drainage holes.
Let all extra water escape before returning the pot to a saucer or decorative planter. Standing water can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering considerably during winter, when active growth slows. Long droughts may shrivel leaves or leave dry, crispy growth.
Soil
String of Hearts needs a loose succulent mix that drains quickly and does not remain wet around the roots. A specialty organic potting mix made for succulents is suitable. The container must have open drainage holes.
For a DIY mix, combine 2 parts Coir, 2 parts Coarse Sand, and 1 part Pumice. Mix the ingredients evenly before potting.
Feeding
Apply an organic fertilizer made for succulents every 2 to 4 weeks from March to October. Follow the product dilution guidance and apply it to moist soil. Do not feed during the slower winter period, and avoid adding extra fertilizer to force faster growth.
Temperature & humidity
Keep String of Hearts within an ideal temperature range of 65 to 75 °F / 18 to 24 °C. An indoor humidity range of 40 to 50% is suitable. Avoid sudden temperature changes, cold drafts, and direct blasts from heating or cooling vents.
What to expect
String of Hearts takes about 2 to 5 years to reach maturity. Its trailing stems eventually measure 1 to 2 ft / 30 to 60 cm long. A mature plant can spread 12 to 18 in / 30 to 45 cm across its pot.
Varieties & cultivars
C. woodii ‘Variegata’: Green leaves carry silvery-white variegation.
C. woodii ‘Heartbreaker’: This form produces larger and rounder leaves than the classic String of Hearts.
C. woodii ‘Frances’: Small, heart-shaped leaves have a noticeable glossy finish.
String of Hearts: questions
Is String of Hearts toxic to cats and dogs?
String of Hearts is considered non-toxic to people and pets, including cats and dogs. Even so, eating plant material may cause mild stomach upset. Keep trailing stems away from…
How much light does String of Hearts need?
String of Hearts grows best in bright, indirect light measuring 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹. Enough light helps maintain compact leaves and strong trailing growth. - Place it 5 ft / 1.5m from a south, west or east-facing window. - Choose a position without a direct view of the sky. If sun reaches the…
How often should I water String of Hearts?
Let the potting mix dry completely before watering String of Hearts. Its succulent leaves store moisture, so frequent watering is more harmful than a short dry spell. - Check moisture at several depths with a knitting needle or chopstick. Do not judge the pot by its surface alone. - Use room…
How big does String of Hearts get?
Mature size indoors: Its trailing stems eventually measure 1….
