Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ is a distinct variety of Hoya. Its small, textured leaves often display subtle veining or splash patterns. The foliage can exhibit cream to yellow variegation, which may sunstress to a lovely pink hue, sometimes even resulting in a “tricolor” appearance. Beyond its appealing leaves, Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ is known for producing charming, star-shaped flowers that often release a sweet, cinnamon-like fragrance, especially in the evening.
Essential Care for Hoya Lacunosa Souma
Light Requirements
Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east or west-facing window for ample light without harsh direct sun. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon rays can scorch its delicate leaves. If the plant is not receiving enough light, its growth may be limited, and flower production could decrease.
Watering Practices
It prefers to dry out somewhat between waterings, so allow the top one to two inches of soil to feel dry to the touch before watering again. Water thoroughly, allowing water to drain freely from the pot’s drainage holes to prevent soggy soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is safer to underwater slightly than to overwater.
Humidity and Temperature
This Hoya enjoys moderate to high humidity, ideally above 40-55%. While it can adapt to average household humidity levels, increasing humidity to 60% or more can support more vigorous growth and encourage blooming. To boost humidity, you can group plants together, mist the foliage, or use a humidifier. The plant thrives in temperatures between 60 to 85°F (18-29°C), and it is best to protect it from drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix mimics its natural epiphytic habitat. A good blend often includes orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat. This chunky mixture promotes good aeration around the roots and prevents waterlogging. Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ prefers to be slightly root-bound, which can encourage blooming, so repotting is only needed every two to three years or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Fertilization
During its active growing season in spring and summer, Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer, applying it about once a month. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant or lead to excessive foliage. Reduce or cease fertilization during cooler, dormant months.
Propagating Hoya Lacunosa Souma
Propagating Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Begin by selecting a healthy, mature stem that has at least one or two nodes, which are the points where leaves emerge. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long, and any leaves near the bottom of the cutting should be removed to prevent rotting. After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to dry and callus for a few hours to a day before planting.
Cuttings can be rooted in various mediums, including water, moist sphagnum moss, perlite, or a well-draining soil mix. If using water, change it every few days to maintain cleanliness. For soil or moss, keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged. A warm, humid environment (e.g., propagation box, plastic bag cover) aids successful rooting, which typically occurs within weeks to months.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves on Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ often signal an issue with watering. Overwatering is a frequent cause, leading to multiple leaves turning yellow and feeling soft or mushy, as roots become suffocated. Conversely, underwatering can also cause yellowing, but individual leaves will turn yellow and feel dry or crispy. Nutrient deficiencies, often starting with lower leaves, can also contribute to yellowing and may be addressed with a balanced fertilizer.
Lack of Growth/Stunted Growth
Lack of growth or stunted growth can stem from several factors. Insufficient light is a common reason, as the plant needs adequate bright, indirect light to photosynthesize effectively and produce new growth. Improper watering, whether consistently too much or too little, can also hinder development. While Hoya plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, an extremely root-bound condition or depleted soil nutrients might necessitate repotting into fresh, well-draining soil to encourage further growth.
Pest Infestations
Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ can occasionally encounter common houseplant pests such as mealybugs or spider mites. These pests can cause damage to foliage and inhibit growth. Regularly inspecting the plant helps in early detection. Treatment often involves wiping affected areas with a damp cloth or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil according to product instructions.
Dropping Leaves
Leaves dropping from your Hoya lacunosa ‘Souma’ can be a sign of environmental stress. Sudden changes in temperature, particularly cold drafts, can cause leaves to drop. Both severe underwatering and overwatering can also lead to leaf loss; dry, crispy dropping leaves suggest underwatering, while mushy or yellow dropping leaves may indicate overwatering. Ensuring consistent care, appropriate light, and stable temperatures can help prevent leaf drop.