Hoya cinnamomifolia, a plant from Java, Indonesia, is admired for its foliage and blooms. This vining epiphyte features large, dark green leaves with prominent, lighter veins, resembling cinnamon bark. When mature, the plant produces clusters of star-shaped flowers, typically lime-yellow with dark red to purple centers. Its flowers and manageable care make it a sought-after indoor plant.
Hoya Cinnamomifolia Care
Light
Hoya cinnamomifolia thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Placing it near an east or west-facing window is often ideal. Direct midday sun can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light may result in stunted growth and a reluctance to bloom. Adequate light encourages healthy growth and flowering.
Watering
Overwatering is a common issue for Hoya cinnamomifolia, often leading to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The frequency of watering depends on environmental factors like humidity, temperature, and pot size. Reduce watering frequency during cooler winter months as the plant’s growth slows.
Humidity and Temperature
Originating from tropical regions, Hoya cinnamomifolia appreciates high humidity levels, ideally above 50%. Consistent high humidity promotes healthier foliage and vigor. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray, a room humidifier, or group plants together. The plant prefers temperatures between 18-26°C (64-79°F). Protect it from cold drafts, especially below 15°C (59°F).
Soil and Potting
Hoya cinnamomifolia requires a well-draining, airy potting mix that prevents waterlogging. A suitable mix includes elements like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. A common recommendation is a blend of cactus compost with an equal volume of orchid mix, or a combination of 50% orchid bark, 30% sphagnum moss, and 20% perlite. Repotting is generally needed when the plant becomes root-bound, and can be done in the spring. Terracotta pots are a good choice due to their porous nature, which prevents excess moisture.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season in spring and summer, Hoya cinnamomifolia benefits from regular fertilization. A diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer applied once a month encourages growth and flowering. A balanced NPK ratio, such as 2-2-2, supports consistent foliage growth. As the plant enters its semi-dormant period in fall and winter, it requires less frequent watering and no supplemental fertilizing.
Encouraging Blooms
Encouraging Hoya cinnamomifolia to bloom requires specific environmental conditions. Ample bright, indirect light is primary for flowering. Some morning or late-afternoon sun can stimulate blooming without leaf burn. A slightly root-bound condition can prompt flowering, so avoid over-repotting.
Adjusting fertilization plays a role; a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content can support more and larger blooms. Apply this for about two months before its typical blooming period. Do not remove peduncles (flower spurs) after blooming, as Hoya cinnamomifolia re-flowers from these structures. Allowing the soil to dry out between waterings can encourage flowering.
Propagating Hoya Cinnamomifolia
Propagating Hoya cinnamomifolia is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem section with at least two nodes and a few leaves. Remove the leaves from the lowest node to allow submerging without rot.
Allow the cut end to callus for a few hours or overnight to reduce rot. Cuttings can be rooted in water by placing the lower node in a jar of filtered water. Alternatively, place them directly into a well-draining, airy propagation mix. This mix includes perlite, orchid bark, and a small amount of potting soil. Maintain consistent moisture, avoid oversaturation, and place cuttings in bright, indirect light. Rooting typically occurs within one to two months.
Common Growing Challenges
Hoya cinnamomifolia can encounter common issues. Yellowing leaves often indicate either overwatering or underwatering; overwatering causes mushy, soft yellow leaves, while underwatering results in dry, yellowing leaves. Adjusting watering to allow the soil to dry thoroughly between sessions can resolve this. Leaf drop can signal stress or nutrient deficiencies, addressed by evaluating light and nutrient intake.
Root rot is a prevalent problem from overly moist soil. Symptoms include mushy stems and discolored, stringy roots. Ensuring the plant is in a well-draining substrate and not overwatering prevents root rot. Pest infestations, such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects, affect the plant. These pests cause yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Early detection is important. Treatment involves wiping pests off manually, or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.