Hoya kerrii (Sweetheart plant)

Botanical & Common Names
- Botanical name: Hoya kerrii
- Common names: Sweetheart Plant

Background & Origin
Hoya kerrii, often called the Sweetheart Plant, is a species of Hoya native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. In its natural habitat, it grows as a tropical succulent vine, climbing through warm, humid forests. These potted heart-shaped plants are usually single leaf cuttings taken from a much larger plant. They root easily but grow very slowly, often staying as a single heart-shaped leaf for many months or even years, making them a charming and sentimental gift.

Care Level
- Care level: Easy
- Suitable for beginners: Yes

What It Loves
- Bright warm spot with some direct sun
- Letting the compost dry out

What It Dislikes
- Overwatering or sitting in soggy soil
- Dark spots will cause legginess

Best Rooms for This Plant
- Bedroom
- Living room
- Office
- Conservatory

Growth Potential
- Typical height indoors: Single cuttings will stay a similar height
- Typical spread: Single cuttings will stay a similar width
- Growth rate: Slow-No Growth
- Pruning required: None

Is This Plant Right for You?
This plant is a great choice if you:
- Love quirky semi succulents
- Want low-maintenance greenery
- Enjoy unique, conversation-starting plants

Light
- Best light: Bright warm spot. Some direct early morning or late afternoon sun is ok. Midday direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn. An east or west facing window is best. - Avoid: dark shady spot

Watering
- Frequency: Hoya can store water in their leaves so are somewhat drought tolerant. Water thoroughly but allow this plant to dry out half way between waterings.
- Seasonal note: Reduce watering in winter when growth slows to almost none.

Humidity
- Prefers: Can adapt well to normal household conditions but will enjoy some humidity.
- Extra humidity helpful?: Yes, misting or placing near other plants can support healthy leaf growth.

Feeding
- Feed with: A balanced houseplant fertiliser
- Frequency: Once during growing season during spring and summer. No feeding is needed during autumn and winter.

Toxicity
- Pet safe: Yes
- Notes: Keep out of reach of pets and small children to avoid damage to the leaves

Repotting
- How often: Once every two years - doesn't mind being slightly root bound
- Signs it’s needed: Roots growing out of the drainage holes, slower growth, or soil drying very quickly. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.