February Plant of the Month
As we head into the shortest month of the year (after what, for many, feels like the longest), we are inevitably prompted to think about Valentine’s Day, and all the encouragement there is to buy for this often over-hyped, anti-climactic event.
However, we like Valentine’s Day for two reasons: firstly, because there are many kinds of love in the world, not just the romantic kind, and it gives us reason to celebrate that. Secondly, it’s an excuse to treat someone (including ourselves) to a plant! As if we ever need an excuse…
So this month, we have three – not one, but three – lovely houseplants for you to read up on, if you so please. And of course, purchase from the shop if the mood takes you.
Hoya Kerrii, “Sweetheart Plant”
This is often sold as a single heart-shaped leaf in a small pot, on the chance that it has been propagated correctly with some stem, which will develop its own roots. Very cute, and a great little buy if you’re on a tight budget. You could also invest in the full plant, which is a climber in the wild. As a semi-succulent, it thrives on well-draining soil, plenty of sunshine and not too much water. If in doubt, don’t water it – only if the soil is bone dry, is a good rule of thumb to go by.
Ceropegia Woodii, “String of Hearts”
If one heart-shaped leaf is not enough to express your ardour to the recipient, then String of Hearts might be the way to go – and the clue’s in the name. This sweet little trailing plant has wispy lengths of foliage that are – unsurprisingly – heart-shaped. Good news too, in that it’s pretty easy to care for. Find it a bright spot (away from direct sunlight), and water it when the soil has fully dried out.
Philodendron scandens, “Sweetheart Vine”
OK, you like the idea of a plant with the classic term of endearment in its name, but you also love the idea of something trailing (or perhaps climbing). Enter the Sweetheart Vine, which has leaves closer in size to the Sweetheart Plant, but the hanging nature of the String of Hearts. It is a bit more specific in its tastes, though – it likes moist but not soggy soil, so keep it watered slightly more often. If its leaves go yellow and fall off, you’ve overdone it … if so, drain any excess water. It will be happy in a wider variety of lights, but the optimum is medium. In other words, not in direct sun or deep shade. On the fence, then.
All three can be ordered from Brambles & Botanicals, along with a great selection of pots. Happy Valentine’s Day – and if it’s not your thing, enjoy the four weeks of February and signs of spring.
