Romance is in the air, but why settle for a dozen red roses when there are numerous less predictable and often more affordable botanical options available? Horticultural expert Hannah Stephenson has curated a selection of romantic plants featuring heart-shaped leaves and flowers that promise to endure far longer than a fleeting bouquet. These charming specimens not only add a touch of love to your home but also provide lasting greenery with proper care.
Sweetheart Plant: Hoya Kerrii
The Sweetheart plant, scientifically known as Hoya kerrii, boasts thick, waxy, heart-shaped leaves that make it a popular choice for romantic gestures. Native to Thailand and southern China, a mature plant can produce numerous leaves alongside star-shaped cream and red flowers. However, it is important to note that potted single-leaf specimens, commonly sold as novelties, typically will not develop into complete plants as they are not genuine stem cuttings.
Growing Tips for Hoya Kerrii
This succulent requires minimal watering, only when the soil feels thoroughly dry. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent damage. Position the plant in a bright location away from direct sunlight, and keep it clear of radiators or draughty areas to maintain optimal health.
Flamingo Flower: Anthurium Andraeanum
The Flamingo flower, or Anthurium andraeanum, is a striking tropical houseplant originating from South America and the Caribbean. Its heart-shaped red waxy flowers, known as spathes, feature a distinctive yellow or cream spike, adding a dramatic splash of colour to any interior space.
Growing Tips for Anthurium Andraeanum
Place this plant in a warm, bright spot shielded from direct sunlight. Use fast-draining peat-free acidic compost and water with rainwater at room temperature, avoiding cold tap water. Allow the top third of the compost to dry out between waterings. To sustain humidity, consider keeping it in a bathroom or misting the leaves regularly.
String of Hearts: Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia woodii, commonly called String of Hearts, is a trailing succulent native to South Africa and Zimbabwe. Its delicate wiry stems are adorned with heart-shaped grey leaves that have pinkish undersides, creating a stunning visual effect when cascading from shelves or hanging pots.
Growing Tips for Ceropegia Woodii
Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering, and ensure the roots do not sit in water to avoid root rot. Feed with a houseplant fertiliser twice annually and position in a light, bright area out of direct sunlight. Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure all stems receive adequate light.
Indoor Cyclamen
Indoor cyclamen presents a superb alternative to Valentine's bouquets, with blooms that can last up to six weeks. These plants feature dainty flowers in shades of red, pink, and white, perched above attractive green and grey heart-shaped leaves.
Growing Tips for Indoor Cyclamen
Keep cyclamen cool to prolong its lifespan, avoiding placement near radiators. In frost-free conditions, consider situating the pot in an unheated conservatory, covered porch, or greenhouse. Water sparingly, waiting until the soil has partially dried out, and water from below to prevent crown rot. Always drain the pot thoroughly after watering.
Bleeding Heart: Lamprocapnos Spectabilis
For those preferring outdoor plants, Lamprocapnos spectabilis, formerly classified as dicentra, offers graceful arching stems adorned with heart-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer. This showstopping perennial thrives in partial shade and can grow to approximately 90 centimetres in height.
Growing Tips for Lamprocapnos Spectabilis
These plants favour cool, moist, sheltered environments but can also flourish in a sunny border if the soil remains consistently moist and they are protected from midday heat. They form clumps that persist for years and generally dislike being relocated once established.
Where to Purchase Romantic Plants in the UK
For those inspired to acquire these botanical treasures, here is a selection of current UK prices and suppliers. Please note that prices are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
- Sweetheart plant: Available on Amazon for £10.99, supplied by Carbeth Plants in a 7cm pot.
- Flamingo flower: Priced at £22.99 at Crocus, with the Anthurium 'Million Flowers Red' standing 45cm tall in a 12cm pot.
- String of hearts: Costs £18 at Dunelm, measuring 20 to 30cm tall including the pot.
- Indoor cyclamen: Available for £18.95 at Not On The High Street, featuring three Cyclamen 'Rouge Vif' in 10.5cm pots supplied by Acqua Garden.
- Bleeding hearts: Priced at £24.99 at Crocus for three 9cm pots, or a 2L pot can be ordered for £17.99 for delivery in spring.
These romantic plants offer a sustainable and enduring way to celebrate love, bringing natural beauty into your home or garden with proper care and attention.
