Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’ is a distinctive houseplant known for its compact growth and small, dark green leaves. Scientifically named Hoya peninsularis ‘Teddy Bear’, its leaves have slightly raised veins and a velvety, fuzzy texture, contributing to its “Teddy Bear” moniker. Once mature, it produces fragrant white, star-shaped flowers that are also fuzzy.
Hoya Teddy Bear Care
Light
Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’ thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its natural habitat under a plant canopy. Place it near an east-facing window or a few feet back from an unobstructed south or west-facing window. Direct sun, especially during the hottest parts of the day, can scorch its leaves. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and a lack of blooms.
Watering
Watering is important for Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’, as these plants store water in their succulent leaves. Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger about two inches into the soil; if it feels dry, water the plant. A dry pot will also feel lighter. Watering frequency adjusts seasonally, with more needed during warmer, brighter growing seasons and less during cooler, darker months.
Humidity and Temperature
Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’ prefers warm, humid environments, originating from tropical regions. Ideal temperatures range from 15°C to 29°C (60°F to 85°F). Maintain humidity levels around 40% or higher; 50% to 70% is beneficial. If indoor air is dry, especially in winter, increase humidity with a pebble tray, a room humidifier, or by grouping plants. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, as these can stress the plant and cause leaf drop.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy soil mix is important for Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’ to prevent waterlogging and promote root development. As epiphytic plants, Hoyas need good air circulation around their roots. An effective mix includes components like orchid bark, perlite, pumice, and coco coir or peat for drainage and moisture retention. A common mix is one part potting mix amended with one to two parts well-draining materials.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’ benefits from regular, diluted fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as one with an NPK ratio like 2-2-2 or 10-10-10, every two to four weeks to support growth. Some growers use a higher phosphorus formula to encourage blooms once the plant flowers. Reduce or stop fertilizing entirely during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn and harm the plant.
Repotting Hoya Teddy Bear
Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’ prefers to be somewhat root-bound and does not require frequent repotting. Repotting is needed when the plant shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots circling within the pot, or if the potting mix has degraded. Hoyas typically need repotting every two to three years, or longer for larger specimens. The best time to repot is during the active growing season, from mid-March through July.
When repotting, select a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one. An excessively large pot can keep the soil wet for too long, increasing root rot risk. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot, gently loosen any circling roots, and remove old, degraded soil. Repot with a fresh, well-draining Hoya-specific mix. After repotting, allow the plant to settle for a few days before its first watering in the new medium.
Propagating Hoya Teddy Bear
Propagating Hoya ‘Teddy Bear’ is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a stem with at least two nodes and a few leaves, cutting just below a node. Remove leaves from the lowest node to expose it, as roots will emerge here.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, perlite, or sphagnum moss. For water propagation, place the cutting in a container with water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. Rooting in perlite or sphagnum moss involves placing the cutting in a moist, airy substrate. Once roots are a few inches long, transfer the cutting to a suitable Hoya potting mix.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Yellowing leaves often indicate improper watering. Overwatering leads to mushy, yellow leaves and root rot, while underwatering causes dry, crispy yellowing leaves. Adjusting watering habits to allow the soil to dry out between waterings usually resolves this. Leaf drop can also be caused by over or underwatering, extreme temperature changes, or drafts.
A lack of new growth can signal insufficient light or nutrient deficiencies. Increase light exposure to bright, indirect conditions and ensure a fertilization schedule during the growing season to stimulate growth. Pests like mealybugs and spider mites can affect Hoyas, appearing as cottony masses or tiny webs on leaves. Treat affected areas by wiping with isopropyl alcohol or applying insecticidal soap. Regular inspection helps in early detection and treatment.