Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ is a popular houseplant known for its distinctive foliage and relatively straightforward care. It thrives indoors, adding natural beauty to various living spaces.
Distinctive Features
Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ is characterized by petite, teardrop or heart-shaped leaves, typically measuring about 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) long. These leaves are a vibrant lime green, heavily adorned with striking silver flecks and splashes, giving it the “Eskimo” or “Super Silver” moniker due to its frosted appearance. The silver variegation can become more pronounced with ample light. This plant exhibits a trailing and vining growth habit, making it suitable for hanging baskets or training on a trellis.
It also produces small, fuzzy, star-shaped flowers, less than a quarter-inch wide, typically white to cream with a yellow crown. These delicate blossoms appear in clusters of 8 to 25 flowers per umbel and are known for their sweet, strong fragrance, often most noticeable at night. While the foliage is attractive year-round, flowering can take two to three years to commence, rewarding patience with its aromatic display.
Essential Care Guidelines
Light
Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat where it receives filtered sunlight under a tree canopy. An east or west-facing window, or a few feet from a south-facing window, usually provides ideal conditions. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced variegation, while too much direct sun, especially harsh afternoon rays, can scorch its delicate leaves. Six or more hours of quality sunlight daily is beneficial, but limit direct sun to two hours or less to prevent damage.
Watering
Proper watering is important for this Hoya, as it is susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings during the growing season. During colder months or when the plant is dormant, reduce watering frequency, allowing the soil to dry out completely. When watering, saturate the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, then promptly empty any excess from the saucer.
Soil Requirements
Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ prefers a chunky, well-draining, and airy potting mix that prevents waterlogging. As an epiphytic plant, it naturally grows on other plants and trees, drawing nutrients from its environment. An ideal mix includes components like orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, or horticultural charcoal. A suitable blend might consist of a small amount of potting soil mixed with a high proportion of amendments, ensuring excellent drainage and aeration.
Temperature and Humidity
This Hoya variety prefers warm temperatures, typically ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from cold drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations. While it can tolerate average indoor humidity, Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ thrives in higher humidity levels, ideally above 50% or even 60-80%. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray, place the plant near a humidifier, or group it with other plants.
Fertilizing
Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ is not a heavy feeder and requires minimal fertilization. During the active growing season, a diluted, balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied every few waterings or once a month. Fertilization is not necessary during winter when the plant enters a dormant period. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient buildup and root burn.
Propagating Your Plant
Propagating Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two nodes, where leaves attach and roots emerge. After cutting, allow it to callus for a few hours to a day to reduce rot risk, especially if rooting in a substrate. Rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end to encourage root development, though it is optional.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, with roots typically appearing within two to four weeks, requiring regular water changes. Alternatively, place them directly into a moist, well-draining substrate, such as a mix of perlite and peat, or a chunky Hoya-specific blend. Maintain warmth and high humidity around the cutting, possibly with a clear plastic bag or dome, to aid successful rooting. Once rooted, the new plant can be transitioned to its permanent potting mix.
Addressing Common Problems
Hoya krohniana ‘Eskimo’ can experience common issues related to environmental factors or pests.
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or underwatering. Mushy, yellow leaves suggest overwatering, while dry, crispy ones indicate underwatering. Proper watering and drainage can resolve these issues.
Lack of growth or stunted development might stem from insufficient light or nutrient deficiencies. Moving the plant to brighter, indirect light and providing diluted fertilizer during the growing season can promote healthier growth.
Pest infestations, such as mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites, can lead to sticky residue, distorted growth, or webbing. Early detection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil effectively manage these pests.