How to Grow and Care for a Hoya Keysii

The Hoya keysii, a native of Australia, is a houseplant known for its straightforward care and distinct foliage. Its vining stems feature semi-succulent leaves covered in a soft, fuzzy texture, setting it apart from other Hoyas. This plant has a trailing growth habit, making it a great choice for hanging baskets or for training up a small trellis.

Hoya Keysii Care Guide

Hoya keysii flourishes in bright, indirect sunlight. An east-facing window that provides gentle morning sun is an ideal location. Too much direct, intense afternoon sun can scorch its leaves, causing discoloration and damage. Insufficient light may lead to “leggy” growth and will inhibit flowering.

Hoya keysii is drought-tolerant due to its water-storing leaves. Use a “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. A thorough watering until it drains from the bottom of the pot ensures the entire root system has access to moisture. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so check that the top few inches of soil are dry before watering.

This plant requires a chunky, airy, and well-draining potting mix. A mixture of orchid bark, perlite, and standard potting soil is effective. This blend ensures that water drains freely, preventing the roots from becoming waterlogged while still retaining a small amount of moisture.

This plant is suited to indoor environments, preferring temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It should be protected from drafts and sudden temperature drops. While it appreciates higher humidity, it adapts well to average household levels. In drier homes, occasional misting or using a humidifier is beneficial.

During the active growing seasons of spring and summer, provide additional nutrients. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, can be applied every four to six weeks. Reduce feeding in the fall and cease during winter when growth slows. Always fertilize on lightly moist soil to prevent burning the roots.

Encouraging Blooms

Achieving blooms on a Hoya keysii often requires patience, as the plant needs to reach maturity, which can take a few years. Another strategy is to allow the plant to become slightly root-bound in its pot. When the roots are snug, the plant may redirect its energy from foliage growth to producing flowers.

Hoya keysii produces clusters of fuzzy, star-shaped flowers that often emit a sweet fragrance. These blooms appear on specialized stems called peduncles, which should not be removed after flowering, as they can produce blooms again in subsequent seasons. A period of slightly cooler, drier conditions during winter can also encourage a more robust blooming period.

Propagation Methods

Propagating Hoya keysii is accomplished using stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy vine and make a cut below a node, which is the small bump on the stem where leaves and roots emerge. Each cutting should have at least one or two nodes and a few leaves.

Once you have the cutting, you can root it in either water or soil. For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged but the leaves are not. Change the water every few days. Once roots are an inch or two long, transfer it to a pot with soil.

For soil propagation, you can dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to stimulate root development, though this is not required. Plant the cutting into a small pot with a well-draining mix, ensuring at least one node is buried. Keep the soil lightly moist and provide a warm, humid environment.

Common Issues

Yellowing leaves are frequently a symptom of overwatering. If you notice this, check the soil moisture and allow the pot to dry out completely before watering again. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.

Leaves that appear wrinkled, soft, or limp are an indication of underwatering. The plant has used up the water stored in its leaves and needs a thorough drink. A deep watering should help the leaves plump back up within a day.

Pests can be an issue, with mealybugs being a common culprit for Hoyas. These small, white, cottony insects cluster on the undersides of leaves and in leaf axils. They can be removed by dabbing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by treating the plant with an insecticidal soap.