Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’ is a popular and distinctive houseplant, appealing to enthusiasts due to its manageable size and unique foliage. Its forgiving nature makes it an accessible yet rewarding addition to indoor plant collections.
Unique Characteristics of ‘Perangin Durian’
The ‘Perangin Durian’ cultivar stands out with its distinct leaf and growth habits. Its leaves are notably small, often half the size of other lacunosa types, and possess a rigid texture. These tiny leaves can develop striking burgundy or red hues when exposed to sufficient light, a phenomenon known as sun-stressing. The name ‘Perangin Durian’ originates from the Durian Perangin Waterfall in Langkawi, Malaysia.
Beyond its foliage, the plant produces small, white flowers with a cinnamon-like fragrance. While the blooms are not large and may only last a few days, they can appear year-round with consistent care. Growth may initially seem slow, but once established, the plant produces new leaves every two to three weeks. Its compact, vining nature suits hanging baskets or trailing displays.
Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’ Care Guide
Light Requirements
Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural filtered habitat. An east or north-facing window typically provides suitable conditions. While it tolerates some direct morning sun, intense afternoon rays can scorch its leaves. Leggy or slow growth indicates insufficient light, requiring a move to a brighter location or supplementation with grow lights for 12 to 14 hours daily.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers its potting medium to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry, or when the pot feels noticeably lighter. Allowing the plant to sit in waterlogged soil can lead to root rot. During cooler months, reduce watering frequency as growth slows; it is safer to underwater slightly than to overwater.
Humidity and Temperature
As a tropical plant, Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’ flourishes in moderate to high humidity. While it adapts to average indoor humidity (40-50%), increasing it to 60% or higher promotes vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Boost humidity using a humidifier, grouping plants, or placing the pot on a pebble tray. The ideal temperature range is 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C); protect it from temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix suits Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’, reflecting its epiphytic nature. An appropriate blend includes orchid bark, perlite, and a small amount of peat or coco coir. Some growers use a mix of pumice, lava rock, and zeolite, known as “pon” mix. This plant has a small root system and prefers to be somewhat root-bound, thriving in smaller pots. Repotting is only necessary when distinctly root-bound; increase pot size by only one inch to prevent overpotting.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring through early fall), Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every four to six weeks. Some growers use a specialized fertilizer with every watering for three weeks, followed by a week of plain water to flush the medium. Optimal environmental conditions (light, temperature, humidity) are more significant for overall plant health and bloom production than the specific fertilizer regimen.
Propagating ‘Perangin Durian’
Propagating Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’ is commonly done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem section, ideally softwood, four to twelve inches long. Each cutting needs at least one node, as roots emerge from these points. Some growers allow the cut end to callus for 30 minutes to an hour before planting.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, a well-draining potting mix, or sphagnum moss. If using potting mix, ensure the node contacts the moist substrate without being buried too deeply. Maintaining high humidity, perhaps with a propagation box or humidity dome, significantly aids rooting. Rooting can be slow, sometimes taking several months for new growth, so patience is key. Once roots are established and new growth is visible, gradually acclimate the young plant to ambient household humidity.
Common Problems and Pests
Hoya lacunosa ‘Perangin Durian’ may exhibit issues if care requirements are not met. Leggy growth or slow development often indicates insufficient light. Yellowing leaves can signal overwatering, potentially leading to root rot if soil remains soggy. Lack of blooms, even in a mature plant, often points to inadequate light or inconsistent environmental conditions.
The plant is susceptible to common houseplant pests. Mealybugs, small, white, fuzzy insects, cluster on leaves and stems, sucking sap. Spider mites, tiny arachnids, cause leaves to yellow and drop. Scale insects, appearing as small, oval bumps, also feed on sap. If pests are detected, isolate the affected plant. Treatments include wiping pests with a water and rubbing alcohol solution, or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Good air circulation and avoiding overwatering help prevent fungal issues like leaf spot and root rot.