Hoya Krohniana ‘Eskimo’

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Hoya Krohniana 'Eskimo': The Silver Jewel

Introduction:

The Hoya Krohniana 'Eskimo' is a stunning plant with small, thick, heart-shaped leaves that have a unique silvery splash variegation. The silvery-gray speckles on the leaves give this plant a frosted, icy appearance, which is why it's called 'Eskimo.' As a slow-growing, trailing plant, it’s perfect for those who love compact, easy-care plants that make a statement with their beautiful foliage.

History:

Native to the Philippines, the Hoya Krohniana 'Eskimo' belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is closely related to the Hoya lacunosa. This particular cultivar, known for its dense splash variegation, has quickly gained popularity due to its unique and eye-catching appearance. In its natural habitat, Hoya Krohniana grows as an epiphyte, clinging to trees and absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and rain.

Care Outline:

• Light: Hoya Krohniana 'Eskimo' thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves or cause the silver variegation to fade. Aim for 10,000 to 20,000 lux for optimal growth and to maintain its beautiful silver splash.
• 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 prefers to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Make sure to use a pot with good drainage.
• Humidity: Hoya 'Eskimo' enjoys moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. While it can tolerate lower humidity, it will grow better and faster in a more humid environment.
• Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to cold drafts and cooler temperatures.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, airy soil mix. A combination of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for ensuring proper drainage and aeration.
• Fertilizer: Feed the plant every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as 10-10-10). Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when growth slows down.
• Propagation: Hoya Krohniana 'Eskimo' can be propagated easily through stem cuttings, which can be rooted in water or directly in soil.

Light and Lux Rating:

For optimal growth, Hoya Krohniana 'Eskimo' requires bright, indirect light with a lux rating of 10,000 to 20,000 lux. Direct sunlight should be limited to avoid leaf burn, particularly in the variegated areas.

• Natural Light: Place the plant near an east or north-facing window, where it can receive bright, indirect light without the risk of sunburn.
• Artificial Light: If using grow lights, ensure the plant receives 12–16 hours of light per day to mimic natural sunlight and encourage healthy growth.

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, ensuring the node is submerged.
  4. Keep the cutting in a bright, warm spot with 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 Krohniana 'Eskimo':

This Hoya variety requires a well-draining, airy mix to prevent water retention and root rot. A recommended mix includes:

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

This soil mix helps maintain a healthy balance of moisture and aeration for the plant's roots.

Fertilizing:

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

Repotting:

• When to Repot: Hoya Krohniana 'Eskimo' does not require frequent repotting and prefers to be slightly root-bound. 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 the plant back in bright, indirect light.