Hoya Kerrii
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Hoya
Botanical Name: Hoya kerrii
Difficulty: Great for the brown thumb plant parent
You may recognize these cute little plants just by their distinctive shape! Their shape makes Hoya Kerrii an adorable conversation piece for any home. Keep reading to find out how to accurately care for your Hoya!
Light
Your Hoya Kerrii will be happiest in bright, indirect sunlight. Keep them out of harsh rays of direct sunlight that can burn the leaves. Be sure to avoid placing your Hoya Kerrii in any dark areas. In the early mornings or evening times, your Hoya Kerrii might enjoy a few hours of direct light to soak up some sun. The best position for them is near a west or south facing window.
Water
Hoya Kerrii store their water for prolonged periods of time between watering, meaning that this plant has very low watering maintenance. The soil should not be saturated or watery, so allow it to completely dry between watering. You’ll notice a green mold on top if you become a little too eager with watering.
Climate
Your Hoya Kerrii will thrive in warmer climates. They prefer temperatures between 65° and 80°F. Low temperatures can stunt your Hoya Kerrii’s growth, so make sure that they remain in a warm part of your home year round!
Soil
The most important part of choosing a soil mixture for your Hoya Kerrii is that is moisture-retentive, which allows it to go long-periods of time without water. The ideal soil to use is an orchid potting soil or a chopped coconut husk to allow your Hoya Kerrii to grow happy and healthy! As time goes on, the potting mix may break down and lose its ability to hold moisture adequately, so it is best to repot your Hoya Kerrii every two years.
Pests & Diseases
Hoya Kerrii can be prone to pests that can cause damage to the plant. These pests include aphids, mealybugs and spider mites. It is best to treat them as quickly as possible to avoid irreversible damage from fungal disease.
Tips
When repotting, make sure the new pot is about 1-2” larger than your Hoya Kerrii’s current home.
Drainage holes are a must with your Hoya Kerrii.
Fertilize your plant twice a year to aid in growth!
Signs your plant is unhappy
Shriveling + droopy leaves: needs water!
Yellowing + falling leaves: too much water!
Yellow + brown patches on leaves: pests!
Propagation:
Hoya Kerrii can be propagated by stem or single leaf cuttings. When taking the cuttings, the more stem included, the better. After allowing the cutting to dry for 24 hours, place it in a moist soil in a warm, bright area, and wait for your little plant to start showing growth of its own. Patience is key because it may take a while for new growth to happen!
Fun Facts
Hoya plants aid in removing pollutants from the air indoors!
Because of their strong fragrance, Hoya plants are used to make perfumes and lotions!
The Hoya plant is non-toxic and pet friendly!
They can produce little white star-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters on the stem.
Hardiness Zones
Because Hoya Kerrii are so hardy, they are able to be kept inside or outside in warm and sunny climates. In response to these conditions, your Hoya Kerrii will bloom beautifully! During harsher weather and cold months, it is best to bring your plant inside to maintain a consistent temperature. Always check your area’s Hardiness Zone to be safe!
The USDA Hardiness Zones for Hoya Kerrii are 9-11. If you live in Tennessee, here is a hardiness map to find out our area’s hardiness zone!
