Valentine's Day

Looking for something beyond giving or receiving roses? The National Garden Bureau offers an alternative to Valentine’s Day gift giving with these four heart-shaped houseplants —and one pearly option — that last long after the holiday’s over. 1. String of Hearts When one heart isn’t quite enough, it’s time to bring on an entire plant! A string of hearts (Ceropegia woodii) has trailing stems dotted with small, heart-shaped leaves that are usually green and silver but can sometimes have a touch of pink. This vine loves plenty of sunlight, so place your plant in a south-facing window. 2. String of Pearls OK, it’s not heart-shaped but pearls are just as desired! Looking exactly like a necklace, these green beads of String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus) will gracefully spill down any hanging basket or pot. A member of the aster family, white, daisy-like flowers will bloom in summer with the aroma of cinnamon. 3. Sweetheart Hoya Also called Valentine plant, sweetheart hoya (Hoya kerrii) is a popular gift around Valentine’s Day because of its heart-shape. You’re most likely to see a single heart-shape in a cute little pot, but sweetheart hoya will eventually grow into a vine, covered in little green hearts. This succulent plant doesn’t need much water and will grow in low light. 4. Anthurium This tropical beauty will charm anyone. The heart-shaped leaves on this anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum) are a perfect match to the bright flowers — mostly in flashy reds or pinks. These popular houseplants grow in ...