Ceropegia linearis, commonly known as the String of Needles, is an elegant and trailing succulent vine prized for its delicate, thread-like stems and small, fleshy leaves. This unique plant offers a graceful, cascading appearance, making it a charming addition to hanging baskets and shelves, adding a touch of subtle beauty to indoor spaces.
 
Key Features of Ceropegia linearis (String of Needles)
Thread-like Stems: The most distinctive feature is its long, slender, vine-like stems that can trail to significant lengths.
Small, Fleshy Leaves: Along the stems are small, narrow, and fleshy leaves, resembling tiny needles, arranged oppositely.
Color Variations: Leaf color is typically green but can develop reddish or purplish hues under bright light or cooler temperatures.
Tuberous Roots: Develops small tubers at the base and sometimes along the stems, which help with water and nutrient storage.
Unusual Flowers: Produces unique and intricate flowers that are small, tubular, and often have a bulbous base and fused petals, typically in shades of white, green, and purple. These flowers are adapted to attract specific pollinating insects.
 
Care for Your String of Needles
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, intense midday sun can scorch the delicate leaves. Adequate light is essential for healthy growth and vibrant coloration.
Soil: Requires a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. A mix suitable for cacti and succulents is ideal.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of problems. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures during the growing season and can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures in winter but should be protected from frost.
Humidity: Adapts to average indoor humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Pruning: Can be pruned to maintain shape, control length, or encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done during the growing season.
Repotting: Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring is a good time for repotting.
Tuber Management: The tubers can be left undisturbed or carefully repotted along with the plant.
Pest Control: Monitor for common indoor plant pests such as mealybugs and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Ceropegia linearis
Stem Cuttings: A relatively easy method. Take stem cuttings a few inches long, ensuring they have at least a few nodes. Allow the cut ends to callus over for a day or two, then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Tubers: The small tubers that develop along the stems or at the base can be carefully separated and planted in their own pots.
Seeds: Propagation by seeds is possible but less common for home gardeners as seeds can be difficult to obtain and may have a slow germination rate.
 
Ceropegia linearis, the String of Needles, is an elegant and low-maintenance trailing succulent that adds a delicate and graceful touch to indoor plant collections. Its thread-like stems and small, needle-like leaves create a beautiful cascading effect, making it a charming and unique addition to any space.
 
 
* 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.