Hoya Curtsii

Temps below 50 deg add Winter Protection!

Hoya Curtsii: The Trailing Miniature Beauty

Introduction:

The Hoya Curtsii is a slow-growing, trailing Hoya species characterized by its small, thick, heart-shaped leaves that are often adorned with silvery flecks. Though it is compact in size, this plant can create a stunning cascading effect as it grows, making it ideal for hanging baskets or shelves. It occasionally produces clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers, typical of Hoyas.

History:

Native to the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia, the Hoya Curtsii is a member of the Apocynaceae family, commonly known as the dogbane family. Like other Hoyas, it is an epiphytic plant, which means it grows on other plants in its natural habitat and gets nutrients from the air and rain. Its compact growth and unique leaf shape have made it a popular choice for those looking to add an exotic, trailing plant to their indoor collection.

Care Outline:

• Light: Hoya Curtsii prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. However, more light will encourage better growth and the possibility of blooming. Aim for 10,000 to 20,000 lux.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Water when the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil are dry. Like other Hoyas, it is drought-tolerant and does not like to sit in water, which can cause root rot. Use a pot with good drainage to avoid water retention.
• Humidity: This Hoya prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%. It can adapt to average household humidity, but higher humidity will encourage faster growth.
• Temperature: Keep the plant in warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid exposing it to cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to the cold.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, light potting mix. A combination of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for ensuring aeration and moisture control. A succulent or cactus mix also works well for this plant.
• Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
• Propagation: Hoya Curtsii is easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in soil.

Light and Lux Rating:

The Hoya Curtsii grows best in bright, indirect light, with a lux rating of 10,000 to 20,000 lux. While it can tolerate lower light conditions, brighter light encourages better growth and a greater chance of blooming.

• Natural Light: Place the plant near an east or north-facing window where it will receive bright, indirect light throughout the day.
• Artificial Light: If growing under grow lights, ensure the plant receives 12–16 hours of light daily to mimic natural sunlight.

Propagation:

1. Stem Cuttings:

• Best Time: Spring or early summer during the active growing season.
• Steps:
  1. Take a cutting with at least one node and a few leaves.
  2. Allow the cutting to dry for a few hours to prevent rot.
  3. Place the cutting in water or a well-draining soil mix, making sure the node is submerged.
  4. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright spot and maintain high humidity until roots develop.

2. Layering:

• Steps:
  1. Choose a healthy vine still attached to the mother plant.
  2. Wrap a node with moist sphagnum moss and secure it with plastic wrap.
  3. Once roots develop, cut the stem from the mother plant and pot it in soil.

Soil for Hoya Curtsii:

This plant prefers a well-draining, airy mix that prevents waterlogging. A good mix includes:

• Orchid bark for aeration.
• Perlite or pumice for drainage.
• Peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention.

This mix ensures the roots stay healthy and oxygenated while retaining the necessary moisture.

Fertilizing:

• During the growing season, fertilize every 4–6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which can damage the roots.
• Stop feeding in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

Repotting:

• When to Repot: Hoya Curtsii does not need frequent repotting and can stay root-bound for a long time. Repot every 2–3 years, or when the plant outgrows its pot.
• Best Time: Early spring is the best time to repot, just before the growing season begins.
• Steps:
  1. Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots.
  2. Repot in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
  3. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in bright, indirect light.