Hoya Kerri Variegated: The Unique Plant You Need in Your Collection

Oleh Julio Schroeder June 10, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you a plant enthusiast looking for an exotic addition to your collection? Look no further than the Hoya Kerri Variegated! Also known as the Wax Plant, this species is native to Southeast Asia and Australia. With its unique variegated leaves and fragrant flowers, the Hoya Kerri Variegated is sure to catch anyone's eye.

Hoya Kerri Variegated is a plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is a tropical plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors in warm climates. The plant has waxy leaves that are green with white or yellow edges. It is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal care and attention. The plant is named after Arthur Francis George Kerr, who discovered it in 1914. The plant has been popular among plant enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and easy-to-care-for nature.

History of Hoya Kerri Variegated

The Hoya Kerri Variegated was first discovered in 1914 by Arthur Francis George Kerr. The plant is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Since its discovery, the plant has become popular among plant enthusiasts for its distinctive appearance and ease of care.

Characteristics of Hoya Kerri Variegated

The Hoya Kerri Variegated is a unique plant that stands out from other houseplants. Here are some characteristics that make this plant so special:

Leaves: The leaves of the Hoya Kerri Variegated are thick and waxy. They are green with white or yellow edges, which gives the plant a variegated appearance.
Flowers: The Hoya Kerri Variegated produces small, star-shaped flowers that grow in clusters. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and are typically white or pink.
Growth: The Hoya Kerri Variegated is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 4 feet in length. It is a climbing plant that can be trained to grow on a trellis or wall.
Care: The Hoya Kerri Variegated is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

How to Care for Hoya Kerri Variegated

The Hoya Kerri Variegated is a low-maintenance plant that is perfect for beginners. Here are some tips for caring for this unique plant:

Light: The Hoya Kerri Variegated prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can burn the leaves.
Watering: The Hoya Kerri Variegated prefers to be slightly dry between waterings. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Humidity: The Hoya Kerri Variegated prefers high humidity. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.
Fertilizer: The Hoya Kerri Variegated does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: The Hoya Kerri Variegated can be pruned to control its size and shape. Prune the plant in the spring or summer after it has finished flowering.

Propagation of Hoya Kerri Variegated

Propagating Hoya Kerri Variegated is easy and fun! Here's how you can do it:

Stem cuttings: Take a stem cutting that is at least 6 inches long and has a few leaves. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Water the cutting sparingly until it develops roots.
Leaf cuttings: Take a leaf cutting that has a stem attached. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly until it develops roots.

Benefits of Having Hoya Kerri Variegated

Aside from its unique appearance, the Hoya Kerri Variegated has many benefits. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding this plant to your collection:

Air purification: The Hoya Kerri Variegated can help purify the air in your home by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.
Fragrance: The flowers of the Hoya Kerri Variegated have a sweet fragrance that can fill your home with a pleasant scent.
Low maintenance: The Hoya Kerri Variegated is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention.
Aesthetic value: The Hoya Kerri Variegated has a unique appearance that can add visual interest to any room in your home.

Problems Encountered When Growing Hoya Kerri Variegated

While the Hoya Kerri Variegated is a low-maintenance plant, it can still encounter problems. Here are some issues you may encounter when growing this plant:

Overwatering: Overwatering can cause root rot and lead to the death of the plant. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Underwatering: Underwatering can cause the leaves of the Hoya Kerri Variegated to wilt and turn yellow. Make sure to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Pests: Common pests that can affect the Hoya Kerri Variegated include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Use insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Improper lighting: The Hoya Kerri Variegated prefers bright, indirect light. Placing it in direct sunlight can burn the leaves.

Popular Varieties of Hoya Kerri Variegated

The Hoya Kerri Variegated is a popular species, and there are many varieties to choose from. Here are some popular varieties of this unique plant:

Hoya Kerri 'Albomarginata': This variety has white edges on its leaves, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Hoya Kerri 'Exotica': This variety has larger leaves than other varieties of Hoya Kerri Variegated.
Hoya Kerri 'Tricolor': This variety has green, white, and pink leaves, making it a colorful addition to any collection.

Where to Buy Hoya Kerri Variegated

If you're interested in adding a Hoya Kerri Variegated to your collection, there are many places where you can buy one. Here are some options:

Local nursery: Check with your local nursery to see if they carry Hoya Kerri Variegated.
Online retailers: Many online retailers sell Hoya Kerri Variegated, including Amazon and Etsy.
Plant swaps: Join a local plant swap group to trade plants with other enthusiasts.

Hoya Kerri Variegated is a unique plant that stands out from other houseplants. With its waxy leaves and fragrant flowers, it's sure to catch anyone's eye. The Hoya Kerri Variegated is also easy to care for, making it a great option for beginners. Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast or just ing out, the Hoya Kerri Variegated is a must-have in your collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Hoya Kerri Variegated toxic to pets?

A: Yes, Hoya Kerri Variegated is toxic to pets. Keep this plant out of reach of cats and dogs.

Q: How often should I water Hoya Kerri Variegated?

A: Water the Hoya Kerri Variegated when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This is usually once a week or every other week.

Q: Does Hoya Kerri Variegated need fertilizer?

A: The Hoya Kerri Variegated does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can Hoya Kerri Variegated grow in low light?

A: While the Hoya Kerri Variegated prefers bright, indirect light, it can tolerate lower light conditions.

Q: How do I propagate Hoya Kerri Variegated?

A: You can propagate Hoya Kerri Variegated using stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil.

Q: How tall can Hoya Kerri Variegated grow?

A: Hoya Kerri Variegated can reach up to 4 feet in length.

Q: How do I care for Hoya Kerri Variegated in the winter?

A: During the winter, reduce watering and avoid placing the plant near cold drafts.

Q: What pests affect Hoya Kerri Variegated?

A: Common pests that affect Hoya Kerri Variegated include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.

Q: How do I prune Hoya Kerri Variegated?

A: Prune the Hoya Kerri Variegated in the spring or summer after it has finished flowering. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged foliage.