Contents
Description
Ceropegia Rubella, also known as String of Hearts, is a beautiful succulent plant that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and Swaziland and is known for its unique heart-shaped leaves that grow on long, thin stems. Ceropegia Rubella is a trailing vine that can grow up to 2 meters long if given enough space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Asclepiadaceae |
| Genus | Ceropegia |
Appearance
Ceropegia Rubella has small, heart-shaped leaves that are green with a silver stripe down the middle. The leaves are about 2-3 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The stems of this plant are thin and wiry, and can grow up to 2 meters long. The flowers of Ceropegia Rubella are small and tubular, with a pinkish-purple color. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall, and are quite fragrant.
Care Guide
To keep your Ceropegia Rubella healthy, follow these care guidelines:
Water: Water your plant deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Feed your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, as Ceropegia Rubella is prone to root rot.
Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: Ceropegia Rubella is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. In colder zones, it is best grown as a houseplant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ceropegia Rubella is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep your plant clean and dust-free, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. If you do find pests, treat your plant with a natural insecticide or neem oil.
Habitat
Ceropegia Rubella is native to South Africa and Swaziland, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil in sunny or partially shaded areas. This plant is adapted to hot, dry climates and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ceropegia Rubella be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Ceropegia Rubella can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-11. In colder zones, it is best grown as a houseplant.
Q: How often should I water my Ceropegia Rubella?
A: Water your plant deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as overwatering can cause root rot.
Q: How can I propagate my Ceropegia Rubella?
A: Ceropegia Rubella can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem with several leaves, allow it to dry for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil.
Q: How tall can Ceropegia Rubella grow?
A: Ceropegia Rubella can grow up to 2 meters long if given enough space.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Ceropegia Rubella:
- Ceropegia Woodii
- Ceropegia Linearis
- Ceropegia Dichotoma
- Ceropegia Sandersonii
References
- “Ceropegia Rubella.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/ceropegiarubella.htm
- “Ceropegia Rubella.” World of Succulents. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/ceropegia-rubella-string-of-hearts/
- “Ceropegia Rubella – String of Hearts.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/string-of-hearts/ceropegia-rubella.htm
