Hoya kerrii - heart-shaped leaves

Hoya kerrii, also known as the sweetheart plant or the wax flower with heart-shaped leaves, is a climbing species valued for its thick, fleshy leaves and vining habit. It is a Hoya with decorative foliage, suitable for growing on a support or in a hanging pot as the stems elongate. The waxy flowers are especially fragrant at night and may produce abundant nectar, while their appearance changes slightly as they mature.

Name and identification.

Accepted name. Hoya kerrii Craib

kerrii (Craib) Costantin

Common names. Sweetheart Hoya, Valentine Hoya, Sweetheart Plant

Origin. Cambodia, Java, Laos, Malaya, Thailand and Vietnam.

The name was published by William Grant Craib in 1911 and honors Arthur Francis George Kerr, a botanist and collector who studied the flora of Thailand and Southeast Asia.

Characteristics. The leaves are simple, opposite, thick and fleshy, with a distinctive heart shape. The plant produces climbing stems that can grow on a support or be left to trail from a hanging pot. The stems may temporarily remain leafless, then continue growing with new leaves or flowers.

Hoya kerrii is recognized as a "cactus hoya"—the plant does well with infrequent watering and medium to low atmospheric humidity, and it is easy to bring into flower.

Flowers and fragrance. The small, waxy flowers are grouped in umbels and range from pale pink to cream, with a brick-red or burgundy center. The shades may develop golden tones as the flowers mature and produce nectar. The fragrance is most noticeable at night. The reddish-brown nectar may drip and stain textiles or surfaces located directly beneath the plant.

Flowering depends on the plant's maturity and growing conditions.

Substrate: use an airy, well-draining mix suitable for epiphytic species. We recommend the professional substrate for Hoya and Anthurium - SG Mix.

For complete recommendations on light, watering, substrate, fertilization, propagation and flowering, read the complete Hoya care guide.

The ceramic pot is not included in the price.