Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’ is a unique plant within the Hoya genus, commonly known as wax plants. Its distinctive foliage features dark green leaves with splotchy, light green to yellow variegation and a stiff, almost cardboard-like texture. It produces delicate, pale yellow flowers with a sweet, potent fragrance, particularly noticeable in the evening. Its compact size and blooms make it a popular choice.
Caring for Hoya lacunosa Amarillo
Light
Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’ thrives best in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window is often ideal, providing ample brightness without direct midday sun. For south-facing windows, diffuse light with sheer curtains or position the plant a few feet away to prevent leaf scorching. Insufficient light hinders growth and reduces flowering.
Watering
Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’ prefers its soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly when the top one to two inches of potting mix feel dry. Soggy soil quickly leads to root rot, a common issue for Hoyas. Pot size, humidity, light, and season influence watering frequency.
Humidity and Temperature
Originating from tropical Southeast Asia, this plant prefers high humidity and warm temperatures. Ideal humidity is 50% to 85%. Maintain temperatures between 65°F and 77°F (18°C to 25°C) for optimal growth. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which stress the plant.
Increase humidity using a pebble tray, room humidifier, or by grouping plants. These techniques replicate its natural humid environment, contributing to healthier foliage and vigorous growth.
Potting Mix
A well-draining, airy potting mix prevents waterlogging and promotes healthy root development for Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’. Suitable mixes include orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir, with some growers adding peat or regular potting mix for moisture retention. This substrate mimics epiphytic conditions, allowing good root aeration.
Chunky ingredients ensure quick drainage, preventing roots from sitting in saturated conditions. Good drainage is important as Hoya roots are susceptible to rot in overly wet environments. Regular potting soil is too dense and retains too much moisture, unsuitable for this Hoya.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring through early fall), Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. This provides nutrients for foliage development and prepares the plant for blooming. Reduce or cease fertilization during cooler winter months or if the plant appears stressed, as growth naturally slows.
Encouraging Blooms
Encouraging Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’ to bloom depends on consistent care and maturity. Many Hoyas, including this variety, may take two to five years to mature before flowering. Consistent bright, indirect light is a significant factor for bloom production. Higher humidity and warm temperatures also stimulate flowering.
Allowing the plant to become slightly root-bound can encourage blooming, signaling maturity. Hoyas produce flowers from peduncles, which resemble small spurs. Do not remove peduncles after flowering, as new blooms emerge from the same spots in subsequent seasons. During blooming, a higher phosphorus fertilizer can support flower development.
Propagating Hoya lacunosa Amarillo
Propagating Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’ is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem section, four to six inches long, with at least two nodes (points where leaves emerge). Make a clean cut just below a node using sharp, clean shears. Remove lowest leaves to prevent rotting in the rooting medium.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, sphagnum moss, perlite, or a well-draining potting mix. For water propagation, submerge the node in clean water. In a solid medium, cover the node. Warmth and high humidity (e.g., covering with a plastic bag or dome) aid successful rooting. Patience is necessary; root development can take weeks to months.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Common issues can affect Hoya lacunosa ‘Amarillo’; understanding their causes helps maintain plant health. Yellowing leaves often signal improper watering: overwatering causes soft, mushy yellow leaves, while underwatering causes individual leaves to turn yellow and feel dry. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing, often starting with older leaves.
Wrinkled or limp leaves indicate dehydration. Lack of new growth may indicate insufficient light, a dormant period, or nutrient imbalance. Pests like mealybugs and spider mites can affect Hoyas. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil manage infestations.