Hearts aren’t just for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or romantic comedies. In fact, you can have hearts all year round, and we’re not talking about the emoji on your phone. We’re talking about heart-shaped leaves in your living space!
That’s right, there’s a whole lush world of plants out there with cordate leaves, and they’re eager to bring some literal “life and love” into your home. Whether you’re a die-hard plant parent or just starting on your leafy journey, these heart-shaped wonders offer something for everyone.
So why not spread the love one leaf at a time? In this article, we’ll take a look into various heart-shaped plants that will not only add a splash of green to your dรฉcor but will also fill your space with vibes of love and warmth.
Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
This low-maintenance plant is ideal for beginners. The Heartleaf Philodendron, with its glossy, green, heart-shaped leaves, is a resilient plant that can tolerate varying light conditions and irregular watering.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Low; tolerates neglect.
- Leaf characteristics: Glossy, green, heart-shaped.
- Best for: Beginners and those with busy lifestyles.
- Remarkable trait: Known for its air-purifying capabilities.
Learn more:
Interested in more? Make sure to check out my Heartleaf Philodendron care guide. And if you’re smitten with the Philodendron family, I’ve got an article on other stunning Philodendron varieties.
2. String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
String of Hearts is a lovely trailing vine that has delicate, heart-shaped leaves. It’s a quick-growing species that needs little upkeep, making it a great option for hanging baskets or shelves.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Moderate; minimal watering.
- Leaf characteristics: Tiny, heart-shaped, sometimes purple under sufficient light.
- Best for: Small spaces and decorative displays.
- Notable feature: Leaves gain a purplish hue under sufficient light.
Learn more:
If you’re interested in learning more on how to care for this houseplant, check out my String of hearts guide for info on how to make this plant thrive!
3. Sweetheart Hoya (Hoya kerrii)
The Sweetheart Hoya is known for its thick, succulent-like leaves shaped like hearts. It’s a low-effort plant that thrives even in small, indoor environments, making it a popular choice for urban dwellers.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Low; infrequent watering.
- Leaf characteristics: Thick, waxy, heart-shaped.
- Best for: Office spaces and compact apartments.
- Unique aspect: Often propagated as single-leaf ornamental pieces. But don’t worry, it will grow more leaves with time, as it is a vining variety.
4. Heart Leaf Fern (Hemionitis arifolia)
The Heart Leaf Fern stands out with its unique, elongated heart-shaped leaves. It’s a bit more demanding in terms of care, thriving in high humidity, making it a great pick for those that succeed at taking care of drama queens. (or those that have proper lighting in their bathroom)
Key points:
- Ease of Care: Moderate; needs high humidity and consistent soil moisture.
- Leaf Characteristics: Elongated heart-shaped leaves with a matte texture.
- Best for: Enthusiasts with a penchant for humid environments.
- Humidity-lover: It’s a great plant choice for bathrooms, kitchens or terrariums.
Learn more:
Want more ferns? I’ve got you covered! Check out my article on Fern varieties and also my Heart Leaf Fern care guide.
5. Flamingo Flower (Anthurium andraeanum)
The Flamingo Flower comes with glossy, heart-shaped leaves and vibrant spathes, resembling flowers. It’s well-suited for spaces that need a pop of color. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering, making it a good fit for well-lit indoor areas.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Moderate; prefers bright, indirect light.
- Leaf characteristics: Shiny, heart-shaped with colorful spathes.
- Best for: Brightening tabletops or as part of a decorative plant stand.
- Distinctive feature: Its spathes are often mistaken for flowers.
Learn more:
And since we’re talking about houseplants fit for Valentine’s Day, why not also add a splash of color? Check out this list of indoor plants with red flowers to bring some contrast to your garden.
6. Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Deliciosa is popular for its distinctive split leaves, which begin as heart-shaped in their young stage. It’s a forgiving plant, ideal for both beginners and experienced plant lovers.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Easy; tolerates occasional neglect.
- Leaf characteristics: Starts as heart-shaped, matures to large, split leaves.
- Best for: Adding a statement to living rooms and home offices.
- Fascinating fact: Young leaves are entirely heart-shaped before developing splits.
Learn more:
For the Monstera lovers out there looking to explore different types of this incredible plant, be sure to check out this list of Monstera varieties. Oh, and if you’re a Monstera lover, here’s a reminder to dust off its leaves!
7. Peperomia Raindrop (Peperomia polybotrya)
This compact Peperomia, known for its raindrop-shaped (heart-like) leaves, is a great addition to small spaces. It’s low-maintenance, perfect for busy individuals who want a touch of greenery.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Low; requires minimal attention.
- Leaf characteristics: Thick, glossy, raindrop-shaped.
- Best for: Enhancing desktops and countertops.
- Interesting trait: Its compact size makes it ideal for limited spaces.
8. Satin Pothos (Scindapsus Pictus)
Satin Pothos, with its heart-shaped, silvery leaves, is not only beautiful but also an effective air purifier. It’s adaptable as a hanging or climbing plant, fitting various indoor settings.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Moderate; prefers well-drained soil and indirect light.
- Leaf characteristics: Silvery, heart-shaped with marbled patterns.
- Best for: Versatile placement in hanging baskets or as a climbing plant.
- Adaptability: Thrives in a range of indoor environments.
9. Chinese Taro (Alocasia cucullata)
The Chinese Taro, with its striking veins and heart-shaped leaves, adds elegance to any space. It’s relatively easy to care for, enjoying humidity and indirect light.
Key points:
- Ease of care: Moderate; enjoys humidity and can tolerate some neglect.
- Leaf characteristics: Hood-like, heart-shaped with intricate veining.
- Best for: Adding a touch of elegance to bathrooms or kitchens.
- Controversial uses: Historically used in various cultural practices.
10. Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum)
Cyclamen, known for its upswept petals and heart-shaped leaves, is a vibrant addition, especially during winter. Its unique leaf patterns make it an attractive choice for indoor spaces.
Key points:
- Historical significance: Often associated with love and devotion in folklore.
- Ease of care: Moderate; prefers cooler environments and indirect sunlight.
- Leaf characteristics: Heart-shaped with distinctive silver markings.
- Best for: Brightening bedrooms and living areas.
11. Syngonium macrophyllum ‘Frosted Heart’
The ‘Frosted Heart’ cultivar of Syngonium macrophyllum is distinguished by its velvety, heart-shaped leaves. It’s adaptable to various light conditions and adds a unique texture to indoor plant collections.
- Ease of Care: Easy; can adapt to various light conditions and thrives in moderate humidity
- Leaf Characteristics: Soft, heart-shaped leaves with a frosted, almost velvety texture
- Best for: Living rooms or offices where its unique leaf texture can be admired
Conclusion
So there you have it! A curated list of heart-shaped leafy beauties that’ll breathe life and love into any space. Whether you’re a newbie looking to dip your toes into the gardening world, or a seasoned plant parent looking for a new addition, these plants have got something for everyone.
And don’t worry, you don’t need to be a horticultural expert to keep these plants happy. Just a little TLC, and you’ll have a home filled with heart-shaped leaves in no time. ๐
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