Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ is a popular houseplant, known for its unique foliage and manageable care. Its appealing appearance makes it a desirable choice for both novice and experienced plant parents.
Understanding Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’
Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ is distinguished by its small, rounded leaves that resemble tiny coins, a characteristic that gives the plant its name. The foliage typically displays a soft mint green to silvery hue, often adorned with subtle flecking or a prominent silver overlay. These leaves are thick, somewhat waxy, and slightly crinkled. As an epiphytic vine native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia, and Polynesia, it grows on other plants. This Hoya exhibits a compact, trailing growth habit, suitable for hanging baskets or trellises.
Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ Care
Light
Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it a few inches from a south-facing window or directly in a north-facing window for sufficient light. While it can tolerate lower light, insufficient light may result in slower growth and reduced silver variegation. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch the delicate foliage, so avoid such exposure.
Watering
Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ prefers to dry out between waterings. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry to the touch before rewatering thoroughly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensuring proper drainage is important. Watering frequency adjusts based on pot size, soil type, and ambient humidity and temperature, requiring more frequent watering during active growing seasons.
Humidity and Temperature
This Hoya variety appreciates moderate to high humidity levels, ideally ranging from 40% to 60% or higher, reflecting its tropical origins. While it adapts to average household humidity, providing additional moisture through pebble trays, grouping plants, or a humidifier can encourage more vigorous growth. Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) and should be protected from cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix prevents waterlogging and promotes healthy root development for Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’. A suitable mix includes components like orchid bark, perlite, and a small amount of coco coir or peat, mimicking its epiphytic nature. This plant prefers to be somewhat root-bound and does not require frequent repotting. When repotting is necessary, typically every 2-3 years or when visibly root-bound, increase the pot size by only one inch to avoid excess moisture retention.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength applied every 2 to 6 weeks is sufficient. Avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant winter period or if the plant shows signs of stress.
Propagating Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’
Propagating Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ is commonly done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem with at least two nodes, aiming for a cutting approximately 4-6 inches long. Use clean, sharp shears to cut just below a node, removing any lower leaves that would be submerged. For water propagation, place the cutting in a clean jar with fresh water, ensuring no leaves are in the water; change water every few days. For soil propagation, plant the cutting in a small pot with a well-draining, chunky potting mix, ensuring at least one node is buried. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Providing a warm, humid environment, possibly by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag or dome, aids root development. Roots typically emerge within weeks to a couple of months, after which the new plant can be cared for as a mature specimen.
Common Issues and Solutions
Hoya lacunosa ‘Mint Coin’ can experience common issues, often related to environmental factors. Yellowing leaves frequently signal improper watering; overwatering leads to mushy, yellow leaves, while underwatering causes dry, yellow leaves. Adjusting watering habits to allow the soil to dry out between waterings is the primary solution. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing, often starting from lower leaves, addressed with a balanced fertilizer. Stunted growth can indicate insufficient light or a need for more consistent care. Ensuring adequate bright, indirect light and a consistent watering and feeding schedule promotes healthier growth. Pest infestations, such as mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids, may occur. Regularly inspecting the plant and treating pests promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil helps maintain plant health.