How to Grow and Care for Hoya Elephant

The Hoya latifolia, known as the Hoya elephant, is distinguished by its large, round, and somewhat succulent leaves. This vining plant has a natural tendency to climb or trail, making it a versatile option for hanging baskets or trellises. The size and texture of the foliage provide a strong visual appeal, setting it apart from many other Hoya species.

Hoya Elephant Care

Light

This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, making an east-facing window an excellent location. Avoid harsh, direct afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves. While the Hoya elephant can tolerate lower light, its growth may become slower and the leaves might not reach their full size. A reddish tint on the leaves is a sign of sun stress, indicating the light is too intense.

Soil

As an epiphyte, the Hoya elephant requires a chunky, well-draining potting medium that allows for air circulation around the roots. A heavy, water-retentive soil will lead to root rot. An ideal mix can be created by combining components like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or husk. This mixture mimics its natural growing environment by allowing water to pass through freely while retaining enough moisture.

Water

Follow the “soak and dry” method by watering thoroughly until water runs from the drainage holes, then letting the soil dry out completely. The plant’s thick, succulent-like leaves store water, making it more tolerant of drought than overwatering. Before watering, check the soil’s moisture by inserting a finger into the top few inches. If it feels dry, it is time to water; if there is any dampness, wait a few more days to prevent root rot.

Temperature and Humidity

The ideal temperature range for a Hoya elephant is between 60°F and 90°F (16°C to 32°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. This plant also appreciates higher humidity levels, between 50% and 75%. While it can adapt to average household humidity, its growth will be more robust in a humid environment. To increase humidity, you can use a pebble tray with water, group it with other plants, or run a humidifier.

Fertilizer

During the active growing season of spring and summer, the Hoya elephant benefits from feeding. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, every four to six weeks. It is not necessary to fertilize during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down. Resuming a regular feeding schedule in the spring will support new growth.

Encouraging Blooms

A Hoya elephant must be mature to produce flowers, so young plants require patience as they focus on root and foliage growth. Providing slightly more bright, indirect light can trigger flower production. Allowing the plant to become slightly root-bound in its pot can also prompt blooming.

The flowers appear in fragrant, star-shaped clusters called umbels, which are a creamy or pinkish hue and can produce a significant amount of nectar. After the flowers fade, do not remove the short stem they grew from, called a peduncle. New flower clusters will form on the same spur in subsequent seasons.

Propagating Hoya Elephant

Propagation is most successful using stem cuttings during the active growing season. Using clean pruning shears, take a cutting from a healthy vine that includes at least one or two nodes, which are the small bumps on the stem where leaves and roots emerge. You can dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage faster growth.

Cuttings can be rooted in several mediums:

• A jar of water
• Sphagnum moss
• Perlite
• A chunky soil mix similar to the parent plant’s

Keep the cutting in a warm spot with bright, indirect light and high humidity. If rooting in water, change it every few days; for other mediums, keep them moist but not waterlogged. A strong root system may take several weeks to develop, and during this time, large leaves may wrinkle as the plant uses stored water to produce roots.

Common Hoya Elephant Issues

Pests like mealybugs and aphids can appear on the leaves and stems. Manage them by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by using an insecticidal soap spray.

Yellowing leaves are a direct symptom of overwatering and potential root rot. If you notice them, check the soil and allow the plant to dry out completely. Wrinkled or limp leaves are a sign of underwatering and indicate the plant needs a thorough drink.

A lack of new growth can be attributed to insufficient light, so moving it to a brighter spot can stimulate growth. It is also normal for growth to stop during the dormant period in fall and winter.