Hey Plant Friends!

This week we are talking about Hoya kerrii, more commonly known as the heart shaped Hoya. Hoya kerrii is native to Southeast Asia and belongs to the Apocynaceae plant family along with dischidia, milkweed, and plumeria. Hoya kerrii is known for its heart shaped leaves making it a great valentines day gift. The heart shaped Hoya is grown and marketed in two different ways. One option is a single heart in a pot. This version will stay as a single leaf for its lifetime as it does not have a node to form additional shoots. Single leaves can live many years with good care. The second option is the vining form. This version can grow up to 13 feet long and produce many stems, leaves, and blooms. Hoya are a diverse grouping of plants and are available in so many different shapes and sizes. The one thing they all have in common is their easy care. With a few tips and tricks, your hoya will even bloom indoors!

Let’s talk about care. Hoyas love and will really thrive with consistent, bright light in your home. Place in your brightest window but do make sure to avoid direct sun for prolonged periods as this may cause leaf burn. When it’s time to repot, we recommend using Sol Soils Houseplant Chunky Mix. This soil is a great mix with ample drainage and aeration. Hoya kerrii can tolerate periods of drought like. Allow the soil to dry down about 75% before giving a good soak. Hoya foliage will tell you when it needs water. If the leaves are soft, even wrinkled, and easily bendable your plant is ready for watering. If the leaves are firm and turgid, your Hoya is well watered. Water requirements will be significantly less during the winter months due to shorter days and less light. Fertilize with Schultz All Purpose Liquid Plant Food during the summer months to encourage flowering. Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealy bugs and spider mites. Check for pests weekly when watering and keep a bottle of Bonide’s Insecticidal Soap on hand for easy treatment.

Hoya kerrii is available in the greenhouse as a 4” plant either single heart or vining plant. If you have additional questions feel free to reach out to us by phone, Instagram, or email us - hello@tonkadale.com.

Happy Planting!