How to Grow and Care for Hoya Krohniana Super Silver

The Hoya krohniana Super Silver is a sought-after houseplant admired for its distinct foliage. A cultivar of Hoya krohniana, this plant is recognized for its heart-shaped leaves that feature a dense silvery overlay. This striking appearance makes it a favorite among plant collectors. Its trailing habit allows it to be displayed in hanging baskets or on shelves. Native to the Philippines, it brings a touch of the tropics indoors.

Identifying Hoya Krohniana Super Silver

The defining characteristic of Hoya Krohniana Super Silver is the heavy, almost complete, silver splash pattern on its leaves. This gives the foliage a shimmering, metallic look. The leaves are small, thick, and succulent-like, often with a pointed, spade-like shape. This dense flecking earns it the “Super Silver” designation.

While the standard Hoya krohniana has green leaves with minimal silver, the ‘Eskimo’ cultivar can also have silver markings. However, ‘Super Silver’ is noted for having leaves that are almost entirely silver, a result of extreme splash variegation. The ‘Eskimo’ variety has more distinct patches of silver against a green background, whereas ‘Super Silver’ presents a finer, more uniform coating.

Comprehensive Care Instructions

Light

Bright, indirect light is necessary to preserve the signature silver coloration of the leaves. A spot near an east or west-facing window is ideal, providing brightness without the harshness of direct sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves or cause the silver tones to fade. If natural light is limited, these plants grow well under artificial grow lights set for about 12 hours a day.

Soil

As an epiphyte, this Hoya grows on other trees in its natural habitat, not in dense soil. It requires a potting medium that is very airy with excellent drainage to prevent root rot. A chunky mix is ideal, combining elements like orchid bark, perlite, and a small amount of potting mix. This substrate allows air to circulate around the roots while retaining adequate moisture.

Water

Because its succulent-like leaves store water, this plant is sensitive to overwatering. Allow the top few inches of the soil to dry out completely between waterings. When you water, do so thoroughly until water runs from the drainage holes, then discard any excess from the saucer. Water about once a week during the active growing season, and reduce frequency in the fall and winter.

Temperature & Humidity

This tropical plant thrives in indoor temperatures from 65 to 80°F (18 to 27°C). It is important to protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops. Being a jungle native, it appreciates higher humidity levels, ideally between 60% and 80%. Placing the plant in a humid room like a kitchen or bathroom is beneficial, or you can use a pebble tray or a small humidifier nearby.

Fertilizer

To support growth during spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month. A fertilizer formulated for orchids or African violets, which has a higher phosphorus content, can encourage stronger root development and blooming. Always follow the product’s instructions for dilution to avoid over-fertilizing.

Flowering and Fragrance

This Hoya produces clusters of small, star-shaped, and fuzzy flowers known as umbels. They are typically creamy-white with yellow centers and are known to be quite fragrant. The sweet scent is often more noticeable in the evening.

To achieve blooms, the plant needs to reach maturity, which can take a couple of years. Consistent and adequate bright, indirect light is a primary trigger for flower production. Allowing the plant to become slightly root-bound in its pot can also encourage it to focus its energy on flowering.

Propagation Methods

Propagating Hoya Krohniana Super Silver is best done through stem cuttings. This straightforward method is a great way to expand a collection or share this unique plant.

Select a healthy vine and use sterilized scissors to cut just below a node—the small bump on the stem where leaves emerge. Ensure the cutting has at least one leaf and a couple of nodes, as this is where new roots will form. You can dip the cut end in rooting hormone to stimulate faster root development, though this is optional.

There are several mediums you can use for rooting. Placing the cutting in a jar of water is a simple option that allows you to watch the roots grow. Another effective medium is damp sphagnum moss, which provides both moisture and aeration. You can also plant the cutting directly into a small pot with a well-draining soil mix. Providing warmth and humidity will increase the chances of successful rooting.