string of needles
Ceropegia linearis
Trailing tuberous succulent vine with narrow linear leaves and small tubular, lantern-like flowers; drought-tolerant and prefers bright light and well-draining soil.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: mildly toxic
Contains sap that can irritate skin and cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by pets or humans; keep out of reach.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place in a bright spot with plenty of indirect light; morning sun or a few hours of gentle direct sun is fine. Avoid hot afternoon sun through clear glass which can scorch thin, needle-like leaves. A east or bright west window is ideal.
Water
Allow the potting mix to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly then let excess drain; do not leave roots sitting in water. In active growth water every 10–14 days, reduce to every 2–3 weeks in cooler months depending on soil dryness.
Humidity
Prefers low to average indoor humidity. Avoid overly humid rooms; good air circulation is enough. If air is extremely dry, occasional mist or standing container of water is fine but not required.
Temperature
Best kept between 10–30°C (50–86°F). Avoid prolonged dips below 10°C (50°F) and protect from cold drafts and frosts.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellow, mushy stems and blackened roots
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage causing root rot
Solution: Stop watering, inspect roots, trim rotten parts, repot into fresh fast-drain mix and water sparingly. Improve drainage and reduce frequency.
Shriveled, wrinkled, or dry stems
Cause: Underwatering or very small pot with limited moisture retention
Solution: Soak pot thoroughly, allow drain, then resume moderate watering schedule. Consider slightly larger pot or mix with more moisture-retentive components.
Leggy growth and pale leaves
Cause: Insufficient light
Solution: Move to brighter location with indirect light or provide a few hours of morning sun. Prune back long stems to encourage fuller growth.
Sticky residue or white cottony spots
Cause: Pests such as mealybugs or scale
Solution: Isolate plant, dab pests with isopropyl alcohol, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat treatments until all pests are gone.
✂️How to Propagate string of needles
Take 5–10 cm stem cuttings with several nodes. Let cut ends callus for a day, then insert into well-draining mix or coarse sand and water lightly. Keep bright, indirect light and slightly moist but not wet until roots form (2–6 weeks). Separating clumps or repotting offsets with tubers also works; seed propagation is slower but possible in warm, bright conditions.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Apocynaceae
Native to: Native to southern Africa, including parts of South Africa, Namibia and neighboring regions.
Natural Habitat: Grows on rocky slopes, in open scrub and dry bushveld with fast-draining soil and bright sun. Often found in crevices where water drains quickly and roots stay aerated.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and keep plant in a bright, frost-free location. Growth slows—water only when soil is dry and maintain temperatures above 10°C (50°F).
Spring
Resume more regular watering as new growth appears. Consider light feeding with a diluted balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks and repot if rootbound.
Summer
Provide bright indirect light and some morning sun; increase watering slightly during active growth but ensure excellent drainage. Watch for pests during warm months.
Fall
Gradually reduce watering and stop fertilizing as growth slows. Move away from drafty windows and monitor soil moisture to prevent rot.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water string of needles?
Water thoroughly then let soil dry; typically every 10–21 days depending on season, pot size and indoor conditions.
Can string of needles handle direct sun?
It tolerates a few hours of gentle morning or late afternoon sun but avoid harsh midday sun which can scorch foliage.
Is string of needles easy to propagate?
Yes. Stem cuttings root readily in well-draining mix; callus cut ends a day then place in bright indirect light until roots form.
Why are my stems shriveling?
Usually underwatering or very dry soil; soak once then adjust watering frequency and check potting mix.
Is string of needles toxic to pets?
It is mildly toxic; sap can irritate skin and ingestion may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, so keep away from pets.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025