Parlor Lantern, Fried Egg Plant
ceropegia sandersonii
Also known as: ["Parlor Lantern","Fried Egg Plant"]
Overview
A unique, trailing succulent with distinctive white and purple flowers resembling fried eggs.
Benefits & Perks
["unique flowers","trailing habit","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Ceropegia |
| Botanical Name: | Ceropegia sandersonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or pot in a bright room with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if grown in a dry environment, otherwise rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix like cactus soil with added perlite or orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back overgrown or weak stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun and afternoon shade outdoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water less in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with aerial roots or division of rooted offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting with aerial roots.
- Let it callous for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with bottom heat if possible.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean scissors, rooting hormone, small pot, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use cuttings with aerial roots for success; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune selectively; remove dead or damaged growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; provides fresh soil and space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture but avoiding waterlogged soil; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCeropegia sandersonii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCeropegia sandersonii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCeropegia sandersonii is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Ceropegia sandersonii?
A: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing it to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Ceropegia sandersonii need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Ceropegia sandersonii turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage; ensure the soil is well-draining and adjust watering habits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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