Hoya Kerrii
Also known as: Sweetheart Plant, Valentine Hoya, Lucky Heart
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Low
Humidity
Average
Size
Medium
30-90 cm (1-3 ft)
✓ Pet Safe
Hoya Kerrii is non-toxic and safe for homes with cats and dogs.
Care Requirements
About the Hoya Kerrii
Hoya kerrii, the Sweetheart Plant, is native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Its thick, succulent, perfectly heart-shaped leaves make it one of the most recognizable houseplants, widely sold as single rooted leaves in small pots as Valentine's Day gifts. A single leaf cutting will survive for years but rarely develops into a full plant without a stem node. With a node, the plant grows into a climbing or trailing vine with paired heart-shaped leaves. Mature vines can eventually produce clusters of fuzzy, star-shaped, fragrant flowers. Full plants are considerably rarer in shops than single-leaf cuttings.
Origin: Southeast Asia
Care Tips
Provide bright indirect light with some direct morning sun. Water when the soil has dried out almost completely -- the thick, succulent leaves store water efficiently. Overwatering causes yellowing and root rot. Use a well-draining mix with orchid bark, perlite, and peat. Average household humidity is sufficient. Growth is slow even under ideal conditions. If you have a single leaf without a stem node, it will not develop into a vine -- seek out a cutting with a piece of stem for a growing plant. Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Propagate from stem cuttings with nodes.
Is This Plant Right for You?
Best For
- Bright rooms with good natural light
- Beginners and busy plant parents
- Homes with cats and dogs
- Forgetful waterers
Not Ideal For
- No major concerns!
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