Hoya Lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’ is a favored houseplant, known for its distinctive foliage and charming blooms. Its unique visual appeal makes it a sought-after specimen for both new and experienced collectors.
Unique Characteristics of Hoya Lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’
The ‘Royal Flush’ cultivar is known for its striking new leaves, which emerge vibrant red or burgundy before maturing to green. This color change, along with silver speckling, gives the plant its “Royal Flush” appearance.
The plant also produces small, star-shaped, white flowers, sometimes described as cinnamon-scented, which last only a few days. Its compact, fast-growing habit makes it suitable for hanging baskets or trellises.
Comprehensive Care for Hoya Lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’
Light Requirements
Hoya lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Adequate light, such as near a south-facing window or in a north-facing window, enhances the vibrant red and burgundy coloration of new leaves and encourages flowering. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight to prevent leaf burn and color loss.
Watering Practices
Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. While the plant can tolerate some drought, consistent overwatering leads to root rot. Yellowing leaves signal improper watering; soft, yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, while shriveling suggests underwatering.
Humidity and Temperature
Hoya lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’ prefers average to high indoor humidity, ideally between 50-75%. While it can tolerate slightly lower levels, higher humidity promotes faster growth and overall plant health. Optimal temperatures for this plant range from 55-85°F (13-29°C).
Soil and Potting
An ideal potting mix for Hoya lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’ should be well-draining and airy, such as mixes containing peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark, or semi-hydroponic substrates like Lechuza Pon or Leca. These plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so repotting should only occur when the plant has outgrown its current container, typically going up only one inch in pot size.
Fertilizing
During spring and summer, fertilize monthly with a half-strength general-purpose liquid houseplant fertilizer. Use a higher nitrogen fertilizer for foliage growth, and switch to a higher phosphorus one to encourage flowering as the plant approaches blooming. Reduce or cease fertilizing during winter.
Propagating Hoya Lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’
Propagating Hoya lacunosa ‘Royal Flush’ is most effectively done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem with at least two nodes. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long, cut cleanly just below a node. Remove any lower leaves that would be submerged to prevent rotting.
Cuttings can be rooted in water (changed every few days) or a well-draining, moist soil mix. Rooting takes several weeks to months. Once water-rooted cuttings have 1-2 inch roots, they can be transplanted. Providing a humid environment, such as covering the cuttings, aids successful rooting.
Common Issues and Solutions
Loss of the signature red or pink flush indicates insufficient light. Increase light exposure, perhaps with a grow light or by moving the plant closer to a bright window, to restore vibrant coloration. Avoid harsh, direct sun to prevent leaf burn.
Yellowing leaves often signal improper watering. Soft, yellow leaves may indicate overwatering and root rot, while shriveling suggests underwatering. Adjust the watering schedule to allow the soil to dry adequately between waterings.
Lack of flowering can be due to insufficient light, infrequent fertilization, or the plant not being mature enough. Ensuring proper light conditions and a consistent feeding schedule during the growing season can encourage blooms. Common houseplant pests like aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can affect Hoya lacunosa; regular inspection and appropriate pest control measures are important to keep the plant healthy.