Hoya Kerrii
Hoya kerrii
Hoya kerrii, the Sweetheart Plant or Valentine Hoya, is a slow-growing tropical climber with thick, heart-shaped leaves. Native to Southeast Asia, it can produce waxy, star-shaped flower clusters when mature. Single rooted leaves are popular gifts, but a stem node is needed if you want the plant to vine.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Low
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Friendly
Hoya kerrii is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.
Care Notes
Light
Give your Hoya kerrii bright, indirect light. A little morning sun is fine; hot afternoon sun can yellow or burn the leaves. An east or west window with a sheer curtain works well.
Water
The thick leaves store water, so let the mix dry out fully between waterings. In winter, water even less as growth slows. Always empty standing water from the saucer.
Soil
Use a chunky mix of orchid bark, perlite, and cactus soil. Choose a planter with drainage holes so roots never sit wet.
Humidity and Temperature
Keep temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is not frost-tolerant. Average home humidity is okay; growth is steadier above 50%.
Common Issues
Yellow leaves usually mean overwatering or poor drainage. Wrinkled, thin leaves often mean the plant went too dry for too long, or roots were damaged. A single leaf without a node can live for years without ever sending up a vine.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) or organic seaweed extract
Soil
Chunky, airy epiphytic mix containing orchid bark, perlite, and coconut husk.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
Can climb up to 10-13 feet (3-4 meters) with a support structure.
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Stem cuttings with at least one node; leaf cuttings (leaf cuttings rarely produce new vines).
Common Varieties
Hoya kerrii 'Variegata' (yellow margins)
Thick, heart-shaped leaves with a deep green center and creamy-yellow margins.
Hoya kerrii 'Albomarginata' (white margins)
Thick, heart-shaped leaves with a deep green center framed by creamy-white margins.
Hoya kerrii 'Splash' (silver flecks)
Classic heart-shaped foliage with irregular silvery-white speckles across the deep green leaves.