Hoya paulshirleyi is known for its foliage and blooms. Native to Sulawesi, Indonesia, this epiphytic vine was discovered in 1994. It is a hybrid of Hoya nicholsoniae and Hoya carnosa. The plant features elongated, lanceolate leaves with a glossy texture, displaying variegation of dark green and creamy white. Its unique leaf pattern, sometimes resembling a turtle shell, can also develop rosy or reddish tones in brighter light.
Hoya paulshirleyi Care
Light Needs
Hoya paulshirleyi thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural filtered light habitat. Placing the plant near a north or east-facing window is ideal, as these locations provide gentle morning sun without the intensity of harsh afternoon rays. While some direct sunlight, particularly morning sun, can be tolerated, prolonged exposure to strong midday sun can scorch its leaves. If leaves appear faded, bleached, or develop brown spots, it indicates too much direct light. Conversely, insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and a reduction in flowering.
Watering Practices
Proper watering involves allowing the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. Hoya paulshirleyi prefers to dry slightly. When watering, ensure a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom of the pot. While it appreciates consistent moisture during its active growth, overwatering is a common problem that can lead to fungal diseases and root issues.
Signs of underwatering include soft or pliable leaves, indicating dehydration. Wilting leaves signify significant dehydration, and consistent underwatering can stunt growth.
Soil Requirements
The ideal potting mix for Hoya paulshirleyi is well-draining and aerated, to prevent waterlogging yet retain some moisture. A common blend includes components like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. These materials provide the necessary drainage and air circulation that epiphytic Hoya roots require. A chunky mix allows the roots to breathe and prevents them from sitting in overly wet conditions.
Temperature and Humidity
Hoya paulshirleyi prefers warm and humid conditions. It thrives in temperatures ranging between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Protecting the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations is important. Humidity levels of 50-70% support optimal growth and flowering. To increase humidity in drier indoor environments, methods such as regular misting, using a pebble tray with water, or employing a humidifier are effective.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season, spring and summer, Hoya paulshirleyi benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is recommended. Applying fertilizer every 3-4 weeks supports vigorous growth and encourages blooming. In the dormant period of fall and winter, the plant’s growth slows, requiring significantly less or no supplemental fertilizing. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, so ensuring good drainage and occasionally flushing the soil is beneficial.
Propagating Hoya paulshirleyi
Propagating Hoya paulshirleyi is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section, 6-15 centimeters long, with at least two to three leaves and one node. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node using sterilized shears. Removing the lowest set of leaves from the cutting exposes the node.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, a propagation medium, or directly in soil. For water rooting, place the cutting in a glass of clean water, ensuring the node is submerged but no leaves are underwater. Change the water every few days to maintain freshness.
When rooting in a medium, a light, well-draining mix like perlite, coco-peat, and vermiculite, or a succulent/cactus mix, is effective. Insert the cut end into the moist medium, ensuring at least one node is buried. Rooting hormone can be used to encourage faster root development. Place the cuttings in a bright, warm location away from direct sunlight, and keep the medium consistently moist but not soggy. Roots develop within weeks to a few months.
Understanding Hoya paulshirleyi Blooms
Hoya paulshirleyi produces star-shaped flowers. The blooms appear in tight clusters, known as umbels, measuring about 8-10 mm across. Their color ranges from soft pink to pale purple, with a darker pink corona. These flowers emit a sweet fragrance, most noticeable shortly after they open.
Hoya paulshirleyi blooms have a short lifespan, lasting one to two days. The plant is a frequent bloomer once mature, flowering relatively quickly, sometimes within six months of propagation. Reblooming from the same flower stems, or peduncles, is common; avoid removing these after a bloom cycle.
Troubleshooting Common Hoya Issues
Common problems with Hoya paulshirleyi are often linked to care practices. Yellowing leaves indicate either overwatering or insufficient light. If the leaves are yellowing and mushy, overwatering indicates root rot. If the leaves are pale and limp, it suggests inadequate light exposure. Leaf drop can result from both overwatering and underwatering, as well as significant temperature fluctuations.
Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids are common pests. These sap-sucking insects cause yellowing, stunted growth, and sticky residue on leaves. Regular inspection of the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, helps detect infestations early. For minor issues, pests are dislodged with a strong jet of water or wiped away with a damp cloth. Insecticidal soap or neem oil are effective treatments for more persistent infestations.