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Description
Ceropegia Macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa, also known as the “Swollen Heart” plant, is a succulent perennial native to South Africa. It is a member of the Apocynaceae family and is known for its unique, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 10cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Ceropegia |
Appearance
The Ceropegia Macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa has thick, fleshy leaves that are heart-shaped and green in color. The leaves are covered in fine hairs and can grow up to 10cm long. The plant produces delicate, tubular flowers that are light green in color with dark purple stripes. The flowers can grow up to 5cm long and have a unique, bulbous shape that resembles a small balloon.
Care Guide
Ceropegia Macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to ensure your plant stays healthy and beautiful:- Water: The plant prefers to be kept on the drier side, so water only when the soil is completely dry.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ceropegia Macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent infestations, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid over-watering. If you do notice an infestation, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Ceropegia Macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky, often dry habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Ceropegia Macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water the Ceropegia Macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Over-watering can lead to root rot.
Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the plant be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or by division.
Related Plants
– Ceropegia Woodii- Ceropegia Sandersonii- Ceropegia Ampliata- Ceropegia Dichotoma
References
– “Ceropegia macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.- “Ceropegia macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa.” International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.- “Ceropegia macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa.” The Plant List.
