Hoya krohniana 'Eskimo' - The Silver-Leaved Sweetheart

The Silver-Leaved Sweetheart: A Charming Hoya for Your Home

Hoya krohniana 'Eskimo' is a truly delightful Hoya variety that's sure to capture your heart with its charming foliage and delicate blooms. This captivating Hoya is native to Southeast Asia and is a wonderful addition to any plant collection.

Distinctive Features

• Leaves: Small, heart-shaped leaves that are adorned with a beautiful silver flecking, giving them a shimmering appearance. The leaves are typically 3-5cm long (approximately 1-2 inches) and have a slightly succulent texture.
• Flowers: Produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are a delicate white or pale pink in colour. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and add to the overall charm of this Hoya.
• Growth Habit: This Hoya has a vining growth habit and can reach a moderate length. It thrives when provided with a support to climb, such as a trellis or moss pole. It can also be grown in a hanging basket to showcase its cascading foliage.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Some direct morning or evening sun can enhance the silver flecking on the leaves. However, be mindful of intense afternoon sun, which may scorch the leaves.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. As a rule of thumb, check the soil moisture with your finger – if the top 2-3cm (approximately 1 inch) feels dry, it's time to water.
• Humidity: This Hoya appreciates moderate to high humidity, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or misting the leaves regularly.
• Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures between 18-29°C (65-85°F) for optimal growth. Avoid exposing this tropical gem to cold draughts or temperatures below 15°C (59°F).
• Fertiliser: Use a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly during the spring and summer growing seasons to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Dilute the fertiliser to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilisation.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years as needed, using a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent over-potting.

Additional Notes

• Hoya krohniana 'Eskimo' is generally easy to care for once you understand its basic needs, making it a rewarding plant for both novice and experienced growers.
• Provide good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues. A well-ventilated environment is crucial for healthy Hoya growth.
• This Hoya can be propagated through stem cuttings, allowing you to share its beauty with friends and family. Simply take a cutting with at least two nodes and place it in water or a well-draining propagation mix.