Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’ – Care Guide, Growing Tips & Essential Information

Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’, often called the Teddy Bear Vine, is a unique trailing houseplant with soft, velvety leaves and distinctive orange-furred stems. This cultivar of Cyanotis beddomei is known for its small, fleshy leaves that grow densely along creeping stems, forming compact rosettes over time. Occasionally, this charming plant produces small blue pompom-like flowers, adding an unexpected burst of color to its textured foliage.

Though commonly mislabeled as Tradescantia 'Brown Hill', Cyanotis beddomei belongs to the Commelinaceae family, making it a close relative of Tradescantia but with a more compact, structured growth habit. Its cascading stems make it perfect for hanging planters, while its ability to form dense clumps means it can also be grown as a tabletop plant or ground cover in warm climates.

Why Choose Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’?
Fuzzy, Velvety Leaves – Covered in fine brownish hairs, giving them a soft, plush appearance.
Trailing Growth Habit – Perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, or terrariums.
Compact Rosettes – As it matures, the plant forms tighter clumps, creating a bushier look.
Rare Blue Blooms – Small, pompom-like blue flowers occasionally appear, adding contrast.
Easy to Care For – Resilient and adaptable to indoor environments, making it great for beginners.
Interesting Foliage Colors – Depending on light exposure, leaves shift from deep green to bronze.
 
 
Origin and Natural Habitat
Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’ originates from the Western Ghats in Southern India, where it grows in montane rainforests with high humidity, filtered light, and moderate temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It thrives in the warm, moist understory, creeping along the forest floor and clinging to surfaces with its spreading stems.

Growth & Size
Growth Habit: Trailing, forming spreading runners and eventually developing dense rosettes.
Indoor Size: Stems grow up to 60 cm long, with a spread of around 30 cm.
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, especially in bright conditions.
Toxicity: No confirmed reports of toxicity, but it’s best to keep out of reach of pets and children as a precaution.

Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’ – Care Guide

Light & Placement
Prefers bright, indirect light but adapts to medium-light conditions.
Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
If growth appears leggy or stems become weak, increase light exposure.
Ideal for east- or west-facing windows or areas with supplemental grow lights.
 
Watering
Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Use the soak and dry method—water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain out completely.
Avoid overwatering, as root rot can occur if the plant sits in soggy soil.
Reduce watering in cooler months, but don’t allow the soil to become bone dry.
 
Humidity & Temperature
Thrives in moderate to high humidity (50-70%), but adapts to typical indoor levels.
If the air is dry, group plants together or use a humidity tray.
Maintain temperatures between 18°C and 27°C; avoid drafts and sudden temperature drops.
 
Soil & Pot Choice
Needs well-draining soil; a light, airy mix is best.
A succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand ensures proper aeration.
Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
 
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
Spring or early summer is the best time to repot, ensuring healthy root development.
Trim long stems before repotting to encourage bushier growth.
 
Fertilizing
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause excessive stretching and weak growth.
 
Propagation
Easily propagated through stem cuttings.
Cut a healthy stem, allow it to callous, then plant in moist, well-draining soil.
Keep cuttings in a warm, humid environment for faster rooting.
 
Hydroponics & Semi-Hydro
Can be grown in semi-hydroponic setups like LECA or perlite with appropriate nutrients.
Ensure the roots receive proper aeration and moisture balance.
 
Pruning & Maintenance
Trim leggy stems to encourage denser foliage.
If it becomes too dense, thin out older stems to improve air circulation.
 
 
Common Issues & Solutions for Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’
 
Pests
Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can be occasional problems.
Inspect leaves regularly and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
 
Root Rot
Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.
Always use well-draining soil and avoid letting the plant sit in excess water.
 
Leaf Issues
Browning tips – Due to low humidity or over-fertilization. Adjust humidity and cut back on fertilizer.
Drooping leaves – Sign of underwatering or extreme dryness. Water thoroughly.
Leggy growth – Occurs in low light conditions. Move to a brighter spot.
 
Fungal Issues
Poor air circulation and excess moisture can lead to fungal infections.
Ensure good ventilation and avoid wetting leaves excessively.
 
Extra Care Tips for Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’
Support: Long stems can be trained over a trellis or allowed to trail naturally.
Cleaning: Use a soft brush to gently remove dust from fuzzy leaves.
Seasonal Care: Reduce watering slightly in winter but maintain consistent humidity.
 
Etymology & Botanical Background
Genus Name (Cyanotis): Comes from the Greek words kyanos (blue) and otos (ear), referring to the blue flowers.
Species Name (beddomei): Named after Richard Henry Beddome, a British botanist known for his work on Indian flora.
Basionym: Originally classified as Erythrotis beddomei, later reclassified under Cyanotis.
 
 
FAQs about Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’

1. How fast does Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’ grow?
It has a moderate to fast growth rate, depending on light and care conditions.

2. Can I grow this plant outdoors?
Yes, in warm, humid climates above 10°C, but it’s best suited as an indoor plant.

3. Why are my stems turning brown and woody?
This is natural aging. Older stems harden over time, while new growth stays softer.

Order Your Cyanotis beddomei ‘Brown Hill’ Today!
Bring home this unique, velvety houseplant and enjoy its trailing growth and soft foliage. Buy now while stocks last!