Ceropegia woodii

Nowadays Ceropegia woodii is a widely spread ornamental plant but it is originally from Africa. Its natural habitat ranges from the east coast of Africa to the north, where it can be found in dense bush or hanging from cliffs. Ceropegia woodii has long trailing branches with small, heart-shaped leaves. At the end of these stalks, it grows potato like beads that can form new plants. In the wild, Ceropegia woodii normally blooms in the wet season, but it bear flowers all year round. When cultivated at home, it usually blooms between summer and autumn. The flowers trap flies that are unable to escape because of small hairs pointing downwards. Once the trapped fly is covered in pollen, the hairs point in the opposite direction, releasing the fly to pollinate other plants.

Ceropegia woodii is best placed in the living room. It requires excellent drainage which can be achieved by mixing sand and perlite with the soil. Make sure the soil dries out between watering sessions because the roots of Ceropegia woodii can not tolerate too much moisture.With its delicate, trailing branches, this plant looks attractive in a hanging basket but it can also be trained on a stake or trellis. During winter Ceropegia can withstand temperatures as low as 10 degrees but it will continue to flower if is placed in a bright, warm spot.