Hoya ‘Dalton Henry’ is a distinctive and sought-after cultivar within the Hoya genus, commonly known as wax plants. This hybrid, a cross between Hoya latifolia and Hoya carnosa ‘Krinkle 8’, is a vining plant with long stems, ideal for hanging displays or trailing. Its low-maintenance nature adds to its appeal.
Distinguishing Features
The foliage of Hoya ‘Dalton Henry’ has striking characteristics. Its elongated leaves are deep dark green with prominent silver speckles, often called “splashy.” The texture is slightly velvety, and young leaves may appear dimpled, flattening as they mature.
Beyond its captivating leaves, Hoya ‘Dalton Henry’ produces beautiful, fragrant, star-shaped flowers. These blooms typically emerge in clusters, showcasing a delicate light pink hue with a more intense pink or red center. The flowers can last for several days and are notably aromatic, often emitting a scent reminiscent of chocolate.
Cultivation and Care
Light Requirements
Hoya ‘Dalton Henry’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Position the plant near an east or west-facing window. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is important. The plant prefers its soil to dry out considerably between sessions. Feel the top few inches of soil; if dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. Overwatering can lead to root issues, so allowing the soil to dry is key.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix is beneficial. A chunky blend, containing components like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir, promotes aeration and prevents waterlogging. This Hoya generally prefers to be somewhat root-bound to encourage flowering. Repot only when the plant has significantly outgrown its container, as frequent repotting can delay blooming.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintain a consistent temperature range. It is not tolerant of freezing conditions; temperatures below 30°F (-1°C) can cause damage. While it tolerates typical household humidity (around 25-30%), higher humidity can be advantageous, especially in drier indoor environments.
Fertilization
To support healthy growth and flowering, fertilize Hoya ‘Dalton Henry’ regularly during its active growing season. Apply a half-strength complete liquid fertilizer once a month from early spring through early fall. During winter, reduce or pause fertilization entirely.
Propagation Methods
Propagating Hoya ‘Dalton Henry’ is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section with at least two nodes. Cut the stem just below a node, ensuring the cutting is several inches long.
Remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes, where new roots will develop. Place the cutting in a rooting medium such as water, moist perlite, or a well-draining soil mix. For water propagation, change the water every few days. Once roots are established (typically a few weeks to months), transfer the new plantlet to a small pot with appropriate Hoya soil.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Hoya ‘Dalton Henry’ is generally resilient, but issues can arise. If the plant is not growing or flowering, ensure it receives adequate, bright indirect light. Also, consider its potting situation; these Hoyas often need to be root-bound to produce blooms.
Leaf discoloration or wilting often indicates improper watering. Yellow, soft leaves may suggest overwatering, while shriveled leaves can point to underwatering. Adjust the watering schedule to allow the soil to dry between applications. Older leaves might show some cosmetic imperfections, which is a natural part of the plant’s development.