Dischidia ruscifolia 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Million Hearts, is a charming epiphytic vine prized for its abundance of small, heart-shaped leaves edged with creamy white or yellow variegation. This delightful plant, belonging to the Apocynaceae family, is a popular choice for hanging baskets and indoor gardening, offering a delicate yet lush appearance with its trailing stems and miniature foliage.
 
Key Features of Dischidia ruscifolia 'Variegata' (Million Hearts)
Heart-Shaped Leaves: The most distinctive feature is its profusion of small, fleshy, heart-shaped leaves that grow densely along the slender stems.
Variegation: The 'Variegata' form exhibits attractive variegation, with the green leaves edged or splashed with creamy white or yellow, adding visual interest.
Epiphytic Nature: As an epiphyte, it naturally grows on other plants (without parasitizing them), so it thrives in well-aerated conditions.
Trailing Vine: It features slender, trailing stems that can grow to a significant length, making it ideal for hanging baskets and allowing it to cascade beautifully.
Small Flowers: While not always the primary attraction, it can produce small, inconspicuous, star-shaped flowers, typically white or cream-colored.
 
Care for Your Dischidia ruscifolia 'Variegata' (Million Hearts)
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch the delicate variegated leaves. East or west-facing windows are often ideal.
Growing Medium: Requires a well-draining and airy potting mix suitable for epiphytes. Orchid bark mix, aroid mix, or a combination of potting soil, perlite, and bark works well. Avoid dense, moisture-retentive soils.
Watering: Water moderately, allowing the top inch or two of the potting mix to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. It is more tolerant of slightly underwatering than overwatering.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is generally not tolerant of frost. Maintain temperatures above a certain threshold for optimal growth.
Humidity: Enjoys higher humidity levels, mimicking its natural epiphytic environment. Regular misting or placing it near a humidifier can be beneficial, especially in dry conditions.
 
Maintenance for a Lush Vine
Pruning: Can be pruned to maintain shape, control length, or encourage bushier growth. Pruning can be done at any time of the year.
Repotting: Repotting is usually only necessary every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a well-draining pot that accommodates its trailing nature, such as a hanging basket.
Support: While it naturally trails, providing a trellis or support can encourage upward growth if desired.
Pest Control: Monitor for common indoor plant pests such as mealybugs and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Feed lightly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
 
Propagation Methods for More Hearts
Stem Cuttings: The easiest and most common method. Take stem cuttings with a few leaves and nodes. Allow the cut ends to callous over for a day or two before planting them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist and provide warmth and humidity until roots establish.
Layering: Air layering is also possible for more mature vines.
Seed: Propagation by seed is possible but less common in cultivation due to the difficulty in obtaining fresh seeds.
 
Dischidia ruscifolia 'Variegata', the Variegated Million Hearts plant, is a delightful and relatively easy-to-care-for epiphytic vine that brings a touch of delicate beauty with its abundance of variegated heart-shaped leaves and trailing stems. Its adaptability to indoor conditions and its charming appearance make it a popular choice for adding a lush, cascading element to any plant collection.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.