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Description
Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Madagascar and is commonly known as the “String of Hearts” due to its heart-shaped leaves that grow along long, thin stems. The plant has a trailing or climbing habit and can grow up to 6 feet in length. It produces small, tubular flowers that are typically shades of green or purple and have a unique shape that resembles a small parachute.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Ceropegia |
Appearance
Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba is a striking plant with long, thin stems that are covered in small, heart-shaped leaves. The leaves are typically green with silver or gray markings and are arranged in pairs along the stem. The plant’s flowers are small, tubular, and have a unique shape that resembles a small parachute. They are typically shades of green or purple and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant’s trailing or climbing habit makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or training on trellises.
Care Guide
Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers to be kept on the drier side, so allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly when you do water the plant, then allow it to drain completely to avoid root rot.- Fertilization: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of potting soil and sand or perlite works well.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba is not cold hardy and should be kept indoors in areas with temperatures below 50°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also develop root rot if overwatered or if the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba is native to Madagascar and can be found growing in the wild in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and scrubland.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting that is a few inches long and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil, water it thoroughly, and keep it in a bright, indirect light until it roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water my Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba?
A: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly when you do water the plant, then allow it to drain completely to avoid root rot.
Q: Can Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba be grown outdoors?
A: The plant is not cold hardy and should be kept indoors in areas with temperatures below 50°F.
Related Plants
– Ceropegia woodii- Ceropegia sandersonii- Ceropegia linearis subsp. woodii- Ceropegia ampliata- Ceropegia fusca
References
– “Ceropegia Macroloba.” World of Succulents, www.worldofsucculents.com/ceropegia-macroloba-string-of-hearts/.- “Ceropegia Macroloba Subsp. Macroloba.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2708790.
