La Hoya kerrii variegata (Hoya kerrii), known as the sweetheart plant, is an evergreen climbing plant with fleshy, heart-shaped leaves featuring cream and green variegation. It grows slowly and requires little maintenance, making it suitable even for beginners and popular with enthusiasts and collectors.
Characteristics
- Fleshy, heart-shaped leaves with cream and green variegation.
- Each specimen is unique, with slight variations in its variegation.
- Slow-growing and suitable for indoor spaces.
- Overall height: approximately 38 cm.
- Pot diameter: 15 cm.
- Choose from the available pot versions: standard pot, anthracite pot, ivory pot, and rosemary green pot.
How to care for it
Light
It prefers bright but filtered light. Protect it from direct summer sun, which can damage the leaves and variegation.
Water
Water it while allowing excess water to drain completely, and avoid waterlogging. In winter, wait until the soil is fairly dry before watering again, without letting it dry out completely.
Temperature and humidity
The ideal temperature is between 16 and 24 °C, without dropping below 16 °C; avoid temperature fluctuations. It prefers humid air.
Fertilizer and soil
In spring and summer, fertilize every 14 days with a balanced orchid fertilizer, preferably without urea. Use a very well-draining, aerated substrate, such as orchid potting mix, peat-free all-purpose potting soil, and coarse material.
Propagation
It can be propagated by air layering or semi-hardwood cuttings, preferably in spring or early summer.
Why choose it
- Heart-shaped leaves: a gift with an affectionate meaning.
- Low-maintenance and suitable even for beginners.
- A size suitable for shelves, desks, or as a centerpiece.
- Ever-changing variegation, appreciated by collectors.
What you receive
- Plant height: approximately 38 cm.
- Pot diameter: 15 cm.
- Available variants: standard pot, anthracite pot, ivory pot, rosemary green pot.
Frequently asked questions
How do you care for variegated Hoya kerrii?
Provide bright but filtered light, stable temperatures between 16 and 24 °C, humid air, and water with complete drainage, avoiding waterlogging.
Is Hoya kerrii an easy plant?
Yes, it requires little maintenance and is also suitable for people with limited experience caring for houseplants.
Why is it called the sweetheart plant?
Because of the shape of its leaves: it is therefore often associated with love and affection and makes a symbolic gift.
How should it be watered in winter?
Wait until the soil is fairly dry before watering, without letting it dry out completely.
