Check out this Teddy Bear Vine Care Guide and learn everything about growing this trailing succulent indoors!
Native to the southern states of India, the teddy bear vine is widely loved for its soft texture, easy care requirements, and attractive fuzzy foliage. If you want to grow this trailing succulent indoors, read this care guide till the end!
Teddy Bear Vine Plant Information
The teddy bear vine is a creeping succulent of the Commelinaceae family. It boasts olive-green leaves with red undersides and clusters of pinkish-purple blooms on hairy stems. The cascading nature makes this houseplant an excellent choice for container gardens.
- Botanical Name: Cyanotis kewensis
- USDA Zone: 10a to 11b
Ideal Pot Size
When choosing the ideal pot size for your teddy bear vine, consider the size of the plant and its root system. Typically, this plant is small in size and does not require a large pot. A pot that is 4-6 inches in diameter is ideal for a young plant, while a mature one may need 8-10 inches in diameter.
Remember to re-pot the teddy bear vine every 1-2 years or when you notice the roots coming out of the drainage holes.
Teddy Bear Vine Propagation
Teddy bear vine can easily propagated in these two ways:
1. By Stem Cuttings
- Cut the stem of a disease-free plant just below a node using a sharp, clean knife or scissors.
- Also, remove the lower leaves from the cutting and leave a few at the top.
- Next, dip the cut end of the stem into the rooting hormone.
- Fill a pot with a well-draining growing medium and insert the cutting into the soil.
- Water the cutting and place it in a bright but indirect light. Make sure the medium is moist but not soaking wet.
- You’ll notice new growth in a couple of weeks.
2. By Root Division
- Carefully remove the plant from its pot.
- Gently detangle the roots and divide them into smaller sections.
- Ensure each section has at least a few stems and a healthy root system.
- Plant each section in separate pots using a well-draining potting mix.
- Water the new plants and place them in bright but indirect light.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In a few weeks, plants should start to grow.
Requirements for Growing Teddy Bear Vine
Light
Cyanotis kewensis thrives in bright, filtered light indoors. While the plant can tolerate direct sunlight, excessive exposure can scorch the leaves and stunt growth. To encourage even growth and maintain the plant’s dense foliage, place the potted plant near an east—or west-facing window.
If natural light is insufficient, supplemental artificial lighting, like LED grow lights, can be used to create an optimal environment for the teddy bear vine.
Soil
This vining plant requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth. Its growing medium must consist of equal parts high-quality potting mix, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand. You can add a fistful of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide essential nutrients and improve the overall soil structure.
Water
Teddy bear vine prefers evenly moist soil but is sensitive to overwatering. The frequency can vary depending on the ambient temperature, humidity, and light conditions. To maintain the right balance, follow a weekly deep-watering session, i.e., saturate the medium until water seeps out of the drainage holes. Allow the top inch of the medium to dry out before repeating the same.
Refrain from over-watering at all costs to avoid root rot and ensure proper plant growth.
Temperature & Humidity
This trailing succulent thrives in average indoor temperatures, ideally between 60-80 F or 16-27 C. It can tolerate short periods of cool temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can slow growth and potential damage.
Avoid placing your teddy bear vine near cold drafts, air conditioning vents, or heat sources, as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.
This vining specimen enjoys moderate humidity levels, typically between 40-60%. To maintain optimal humidity levels, you can use a humidifier, group plants together, or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Misting the plant occasionally with tepid water also helps.
Teddy Bear Vine Care
Fertilizer
During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your teddy bear vine with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy growth.
Refrain from over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak stems and potential root burn. Stop the fertilization process during the fall and winter months, when the plant’s growth slows down.
Pests and Diseases
The most common pests that affect the plant are aphids, mealybugs, scales, and spider mites. If you notice an infestation, tackle the issue with neem oil spray and rubbing alcohol. Always isolate the affected plant from other houseplants to prevent the spread of pests.
Diseases that can affect this vining plant are root rot and fungal issues on the leaves. To prevent these issues, ensure proper ventilation and avoid wetting the foliage.
