Cyanotis beddomei — a medium houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Cyanotis beddomei

Cyanotis Beddomei

Updated · 7 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Teddy bear vine is a unique houseplant that has spreading or trailing stems decorated with unusual tear-drop-shaped fuzzy chocolate-brown leaves. The soft texture of its foliage gives rise to its common name, teddy bear vine. Teddy Bear Vine (Cyanotis kewensis) is native to South Africa. The foliage in (Teddy Bear Vine) bears rusty brown hairs. This perennial succulent grows to a height of 6 to 8 inches and spreads to a maximum of 24 inches. It produces inconspicuous blooms that are a pinkish mauve or blue. It's used for ornamental purposes for beautification.

A note from PlantMom

Teddy-bear vine is fairly resistant to disease and usually not prone to illnesses. However, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment. These problems are typically mild. For care, this plant requires moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to preserve a tidy appearance and healthy growth. Fertilizing can also encourage flowering. Teddy-bear vine is well suited for people with outdoor spaces like a garden or patio and does not demand extensive care experience. It may need more attention when cultivated indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Cyanotis Beddomei.

Light

Teddy-bear vine naturally grows in places like forest understories or rocky locations, where it gets natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, reflecting its hardy, adaptable nature.

Water

The teddy-bear vine flourishes in environments with high humidity and consistently moist soil. To support its growth, it needs to be watered weekly. As an indoor plant, it benefits from regular misting because it is sensitive to the dry air caused by heating or air conditioning.

Humidity

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Temperature

Teddy-bear vine comes from tropical areas where conditions are usually warm and humid. Consequently, it is adapted to elevated temperatures and humidity levels. It does not respond well to abrupt temperature shifts and favors a constant thermal environment, so preventing temperature swings indoors is important. The plant generally cannot withstand cold and needs warmer conditions to grow; if the surrounding temperature falls too much, growth may stop or the plant may die.

Fertilizer

Proper fertilization is essential for the Teddy-bear vine’s health and appearance. Apply fertilizer in summer, repeating the application monthly throughout the season. Nutrients support growth and the upkeep of the plant’s parts. Fertilizing improves the Teddy-bear vine’s flower display, helping it achieve its best blooms.

Pruning

To encourage a compact, bushy growth and to prevent your Teddy Bear Vine from becoming leggy, regularly pinch off the growing tips. The stems become leggy with age; cutback the stems to rejuvenate new growth of your Teddy Bear Vine.

Pot & Repot

Repot the Teddy-bear vine in early spring, selecting a pot only slightly larger than the current one and with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and set the root ball at the same level as before. Gently loosen any root-bound roots. After repotting, water thoroughly and place the plant in a warm, shady location. Regular pruning keeps its size in check and encourages new growth.

Toxicity

Teddy Bear Vine (Cyanotis kewensis) is non-toxic to humans and pets. The plants are safe to grow indoors.

Further reading →

The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Cyanotis
Family
Commelinaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Mature Height
13 cm to 23 cm
Mature Spread
15 cm to 20 cm
Leaf Color
Brown
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Pink, Purple
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall, Early winter
Native Area
India
PLATES
Cyanotis beddomei leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Cyanotis beddomei leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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