Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ is a distinct cultivar of Hoya carnosa, recognized by its unique foliage. Its textured leaves can appear concave, with prominent veins. Under specific light conditions, ‘Pursha’ can develop attractive sun-stressed coloration, displaying pink or reddish hues. As a Hoya carnosa cultivar, it shares many robust and adaptable characteristics of the broader wax plant family.
Caring for Pursha Hoya
Light Requirements
Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing the plant near an east or north-facing window provides suitable filtered sunlight. While it tolerates some morning sun, direct harsh afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. Sufficient light is also a factor in the plant developing its characteristic sun-stressed pink or red coloration.
Watering Needs
As a semi-succulent, Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ stores water in its thick leaves, making it tolerant of drier conditions. Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again. It is safer to underwater this plant than to overwater, which can lead to root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), watering once a week might be appropriate, while in winter, this frequency can extend to every two to three weeks.
Soil and Potting
Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ requires a well-draining and airy potting mix to mimic its epiphytic nature. A suitable mix includes amendments like orchid bark, perlite, or pumice to ensure good drainage and aeration. Standard potting soil should be amended with these components, often at a ratio of one part potting mix to one or two parts well-draining materials. Choosing a pot with drainage holes is important to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ prefers consistent temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can hinder growth or cause leaf drop. This plant appreciates moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. To increase humidity, place the plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom, group plants, or use a pebble tray.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ during its active growing season (spring through summer) supports healthy growth and potential blooming. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, applied every three to four weeks, is appropriate. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, may indicate a need for fertilization.
Encouraging Pursha Hoya Blooms
To encourage Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ to bloom, provide adequate bright, indirect light. Insufficient light is a common reason for a lack of flowers. Consistent care and allowing the plant to become somewhat root-bound can also encourage flowering. Hoya carnosa plants produce flowers from specialized structures called peduncles, which should not be removed after blooming. The plant will re-bloom from the same peduncle in subsequent seasons, with each bloom leaving a small ring-like scar.
Propagating Pursha Hoya
Propagating Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Take a healthy cutting from the mother plant during spring or summer, including at least one or two nodes. Remove the bottom leaves to expose these nodes, as roots will develop from these points. Cuttings can be rooted in water (change weekly) or directly in a well-draining soil mix. Maintain consistent moisture, warmth, and bright, indirect light for successful rooting.
Common Issues and Solutions
Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’ can experience issues such as leaf yellowing, which often indicates overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. If leaves become soft and yellow, root rot may be occurring due to excessively wet soil, necessitating a reduction in watering frequency. Wilting can suggest either severe underwatering or root rot preventing water uptake; checking the soil moisture helps diagnose the cause. Lack of growth is frequently tied to insufficient light or a need for fertilization.
Pests like mealybugs and spider mites can sometimes affect Hoya carnosa ‘Pursha’. Address pest issues by isolating the plant and treating with appropriate horticultural solutions.