If you’ve ever bought a bouquet of roses for Valentine’s Day, you know they are stunning, but they only last a week at best. This year, why not trade the temporary blooms for a Valentine’s gift that keeps on growing? Choosing a heart-shaped plant is a thoughtful way to show your love, offering a living reminder of your affection that can thrive for years to come.
In this guide, we’ll explore 7 of the best heart-shaped plants you can gift, from low-maintenance succulents to lush, tropical beauties. Whether your Valentine is a seasoned “plant parent” or someone just starting their green journey, there’s a perfect leafy heart waiting for them. Let’s dive in and find the ultimate living gift for your sweetheart!
1. Hoya Kerrii (Sweetheart Plant)
If you have ever scrolled through Instagram around Valentine’s Day, you have definitely seen this one. The Hoya Kerrii is a thick, succulent leaf that is shaped like a perfect green heart. It is often sold as a single leaf in a small ceramic pot.
The Hoya Kerrii is hands-down one of the most iconic Heart-Shaped Plants. Often sold as a single, heart-shaped leaf in a small pot, this succulent is the definition of “cute.” It’s a favorite for those living in apartments in cities like New York or Chicago, where indoor space is premium and easy care is a must.
Why Choose Hoya Kerrii?
This slow-growing beauty is incredibly hardy and drought-tolerant, making it perfect for beginners. It thrives in bright, indirect light and only needs watering when the soil is completely dry. If you’re looking for a “set it and forget it” gift that still packs an emotional punch, the Sweetheart Hoya is your best bet.
2. String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
For a gift that feels a bit more whimsical, the String of Hearts is a stunning choice. With its delicate, trailing vines and tiny, marbled heart-shaped leaves, it looks beautiful cascading from a bookshelf or a hanging planter. It’s particularly popular in sun-drenched homes in California or Arizona.
Why Choose String of Hearts?
This plant is fast-growing under the right conditions and is surprisingly resilient. It prefers bright light and well-drained soil (much like a succulent). Its purple-toned undersides and unique appearance make it a “gem” for collectors who want something a little more elegant than a standard houseplant.
3. Anthurium (Laceleaf)
If your partner loves the classic red color of Valentine’s Day, the Anthurium is your best bet. Unlike other Heart-Shaped plants, where only the foliage is heart-shaped, the Anthurium is known for its waxy, heart-shaped flowers (which are actually specialized leaves called spathes). This plant brings a tropical vibe to any room and is a great pick for gardeners in humid climates like Florida or Louisiana.
Why Choose Anthurium?
Anthuriums are famous for their long-lasting “blooms” that can stay vibrant for months. They thrive in high humidity and bright, indirect light. While they require a bit more attention to watering than a succulent, their ability to purify the air and provide year-round color makes them a rewarding gift for a dedicated partner.
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4. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
The Heartleaf Philodendron is the “reliable favorite” of the plant world. With its lush, deep green foliage and rapid growth, this heart-shaped leaf plant is a symbol of a love that grows stronger every day. It’s a versatile choice that adapts well to various indoor environments, from Seattle to Atlanta.
Why Choose Heartleaf Philodendron?
This variety is incredibly forgiving and can handle lower light levels than most other plants on this list. It’s resistant to most common pests and easy to propagate, meaning your Valentine can even share “starts” of their gift with you later! It’s the perfect choice for someone who wants a classic, leafy look with minimal fuss.
5. Cyclamen
While many houseplants wait for spring to shine, the Cyclamen blooms in the winter. Its leaves are beautifully patterned hearts, often with silver marbling, and the flowers look like fluttering butterflies.
Cyclamen are loved for their sweet-scented flowers and stunning heart-shaped leaves that often feature intricate silver marbling. If you’re in a cooler region like the Pacific Northwest or New England, these are some of the best heart-shaped plants for a wonderful indoor winter treat.
Why Choose Cyclamen? Unlike many tropical plants, Cyclamen actually prefers cooler temperatures, making them ideal for draftier homes during February. They provide a burst of color in shades of pink, red, or white right when the winter blues hit. Just be sure to water them from the bottom to keep their heart-shaped foliage looking crisp!
6. Bleeding Heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis)
Looking for something for the outdoor garden? The Bleeding Heart is a classic perennial that produces actual heart-shaped flowers that dangle from arching stems. It’s a must-have for gardeners in Oregon, Washington, or the Midwest who want a romantic touch in their spring landscape.
Why Choose Bleeding Heart?
This plant matures in early spring and loves shady, moist spots. It’s a “seasoned pro” favorite because it returns year after year, symbolizing a lasting bond. While it goes dormant in the heat of summer, its spectacular spring display is unmatched for its romantic symbolism.
7. Caladium (Angel Wings)
For a vibrant pop of color, Caladiums, often called “Angel Wings,” feature large, paper-thin, heart-shaped leaves in stunning combinations of pink, white, and green. They are perfect for adding a “wow” factor to a patio or a bright indoor spot in warmer areas like Texas or Georgia.
Why Choose Caladium?
Caladiums thrive in warmth and humidity, making them excellent summer stars. They grow from tubers and offer some of the most striking patterns in the plant kingdom. If your Valentine loves “exotic” looks and bright colors, a pot of heart-shaped Caladiums will definitely surprise and delight them.
Conclusion
Whether it’s the tiny, sturdy Hoya Kerrii or the elegant String of Hearts, there is a heart-shaped plant for every person and every home. This year, when looking for Valentine’s gifts, skip the grocery store flowers and choose a gift that symbolizes a growing, lasting relationship. Consider your Valentine’s light conditions and experience level, and you’ll find one of the best heart-shaped plants that they will cherish. Happy gifting, and may your love (and your garden) grow beautiful!
