Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ is a captivating Hoya variety, popular for its distinct foliage and unique appearance. Its visual appeal makes it a desirable addition to indoor plant collections.
Understanding Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’
Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ is a cultivar known for its waxy, slightly veiny leaves with wavy edges. New growth or leaves exposed to ample light can display reddish hues, often with distinctive pink markings and purple splotches, which are normal and harmless. This plant is native to Southeast Asia, specifically Malaysia and Thailand, where it exhibits an excellent climbing habit, often growing along rivers at altitudes between 400 and 700 meters. Its thick, waxy leaves are an adaptation for retaining water in its native warm, humid environment.
Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ Care Guide
Light
Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural environment where light is filtered through a tree canopy. Placing it near north or east-facing windows is often suitable. Insufficient light can hinder growth, while too much direct sun can lead to sunburned or faded leaves, though some red coloration (sunstress) is natural with bright light.
Watering
Watering should be thorough, allowing water to drain from the pot, but then the soil should be allowed to dry out almost completely between waterings. Hoyas store water in their thick leaves, making them prone to issues if overwatered. Checking the top inch or two of soil with a finger, or by assessing the pot’s weight, can help determine when to water.
Soil
A well-draining soil mix is important, as Hoyas dislike waterlogged conditions. A common mix includes one part potting soil, one part succulent soil, and one part perlite or orchid bark. Terracotta or clay pots are often preferred over plastic because they help wick away excess moisture, preventing overwatering.
Temperature and Humidity
Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ prefers temperatures above 14°C (57°F), though it can tolerate slightly cooler conditions than some other Hoya varieties, down to about 10°C (50°F). While it tolerates drier environments, maintaining humidity levels above 40% is beneficial, and misting or grouping plants can help.
Fertilization
During the spring and summer growing seasons, light fertilization every three to four weeks with a diluted liquid feed is beneficial. A balanced NPK ratio (e.g., 2-2-2) works well for general growth. During darker, colder winter months, or periods of semi-dormancy (October to February), fertilizer is not typically needed.
Repotting
Repotting is generally infrequent, as Hoyas prefer to be slightly root-bound. When repotting, select a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. This helps prevent the soil from staying wet for too long, which can lead to root problems.
Propagating Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’
Propagating Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ is commonly done through stem cuttings. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem with at least two nodes and a few leaves. Using clean, sharp shears, make a cut just below a node. After taking the cutting, some growers allow the cut end to callus for a few hours or overnight, though this is not always strictly necessary. Cuttings can be rooted in water, where roots typically emerge within a few weeks. Alternatively, they can be placed directly into a well-draining substrate such as perlite, sphagnum moss, or a light soil mix. Keeping the rooting medium consistently moist but not soggy will help encourage root development.
Troubleshooting Common Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ Problems
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves on Hoya erythrina ‘Nara’ often signal watering issues. Overwatering can suffocate roots, leading to soft, mushy leaves, while underwatering causes dry, crispy leaves. Addressing the watering schedule and ensuring proper drainage can resolve this.
Limp Leaves
Limp leaves usually indicate overwatering or severe underwatering. Browning leaf tips can point to low humidity or insufficient watering. Ensuring consistent moisture without saturation and providing adequate humidity can help.
Lack of Growth
Lack of growth might stem from insufficient light, nutrient deficiencies, or dormancy. Assessing light exposure and providing appropriate fertilization during the growing season can stimulate growth.
Pests
Hoya plants can be susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Mealybugs are small, white, fuzzy insects, often found in leaf crevices. Spider mites are tiny, causing yellowing or bronzing of leaves and fine webbing. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that cluster on new growth. For mealybugs, dabbing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be effective. Spider mites can be managed by rinsing the plant with water and using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Aphids can be dislodged with a strong spray of water or treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root Rot
Root rot, characterized by mushy stems and yellowing leaves, is usually caused by overwatering. Address it by allowing the soil to dry completely and, if severe, repotting into fresh, well-draining soil.