Native to the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia, Hoya curtisii has a compact growth pattern suited to hanging baskets and small spaces. If grown outdoors, its size and trailing vines make a great addition to large pot arrangements.
Hoya Curtisii Appearance
Hoya curtisii is a trailing vine growing 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.6 cm) in height and 1 foot (30 cm) wide. The small leaves are rounded or heart-shaped and thick like a succulent. The coloring is olive green with gray variegation.
Hoya curtisii flowers form in round clusters of red with greenish-yellow centers. The blooms are fuzzy, and their fragrance is said to resemble melon or citrus notes. Careful and patient Hoya curtisii care is required to encourage blooming.
Hoya Curtisii Light Requirements
Hoya curtisii tolerates low lighting to direct, morning sunlight conditions. All-day, indirect sun will provide consistent light, which encourages blooming. Supplement low-lighting conditions with a small grow light if needed. Pale leaves on your plant are a sign of too little light exposure.
Watering and Soil
Let the top three inches of soil dry between watering. To test soil moisture, insert a finger up to the main knuckle. If the soil has any moisture do not provide water. Watering should not exceed twice per week in the summer and once per week during the winter. Avoid root rot by draining water collected in the pot’s drip tray.
Hoya curtisii care requires light, well-draining soil. Choose a cactus soil or amend potting soil with perlite and orchid bark to increase drainage. The soil’s pH level should be between 6.8 and 7.2 for optimal growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Keep temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 degrees Celsius) and avoid cold drafts from windows or doors. Lower temperatures or exposure to drafts will slow growth and damage leaves.
Hoya curtisii prefers humidity levels of 50 percent or higher. In dry climates, increase humidity by misting the leaves with water in the morning. Do not over mist or allow excess water to remain on leaves overnight as this encourages leaf fungus.
Pruning and Propagation
Prune or pinch vines to shape this compact plant as needed. Remove yellowing or dead leaves to maintain the plant’s health. When trimming, use sharp, disinfected scissors to avoid damage or disease.
Hoya curtisii propagates in two ways: by cuttings or by seed. Seed propagation starts by allowing the plant’s seed pods to dry while still attached. Once dry, remove the pods and break them open. Collect the seeds inside and plant them in a light potting soil amended with perlite. Seeds should be planted immediately after collection as they do not store well.
To propagate by cutting, snip a healthy stem with two to three pairs of nodes with leaves attached. Trim the bottom pair of leaves to expose the nodes, leaving at least two leaves attached. Fill a small pot with well-draining soil nix and insert the stem to cover the exposed nodes. Water the stem until the soil is moist but not soggy.
Place the cutting in indirect sunlight in a space with a temperature above 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 degrees Celsius). Water enough to keep the soil moist but not wet. New growth on the stem cutting signals root growth and a successful propagation.
Hoya Curtisii Pests and Disease
Pests
The compact growth pattern of Hoya curtisii makes it susceptible to infestations from small insects. Spider mites, aphids, fungus gnats and mealybugs are common pests to watch for. Rid your plant of fungus gnats by inserting sticky card traps into the plant’s pot. To stop other infestations, spray your plant with a neem oil pesticide as directed.
Disease
Leaf fungus is common in compact plants. Ensure there is ample air flow around your Hoya curtisii and do not let water sit on the leaves. When watering your plant, use a watering can with a long, narrow spout. Insert the spout past the leaves and pour the water directly onto the soil.
The compact Hoya curtisii is a welcome addition to any houseplant collection. The Hoya curtisii flowers are unique and emit a light, fresh fragrance. The plant’s tolerance for a variety of lighting conditions makes it an easy plant to grow indoors.
In a rush? Here are 10 Hoya varieties for beginners to discover:
Hoya Wayetii FAQ
The Hoya curtisii will grow well in either a basket or pot. If grown in a hanging basket, the long vines will grow downward creating long, trailing vines. The long vines require support if grown in a pot. Insert a small trellis or bamboo hoop and wrap the vines around the support.
Misshapen or thinning leaves is a sign the plant is stressed. Common causes for plant stress include compacted soil, overwatering or underwatering, and improper room temperatures. Proper Hoya curtisii care includes ensuring your plant’s soil is loose and well draining, you water when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil is dry, and the temperature is 60 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
No. The Hoya curtisii is not considered toxic to pets or humans.
Yes, this Hoya plant can be grown outdoors in growing zone 10a or higher. It makes a compact ground cover helpful in choking out unwanted weeds or as a border in beds.
The proper pronunciation of this plant is HOY-uh KUR-tiss-ee-eye
