Hoya shepherdii, also known as the Hoya wayetti, is a versatile houseplant that can grow well in a variety of conditions. With its waxy green leaves and star-shaped flowers, this Hoya makes a great addition to any indoor plant collection. Learning how to properly care for and grow Hoya shepherdii will allow it to thrive for many years.
Light Requirements
- Hoya shepherdii thrives in bright, indirect light. A south or west-facing window is ideal.
- Too little light will result in fewer flowers. Leaves may become leggy and limp.
- If the plant receives too much direct sun, the leaves will become reddish, dull, or burned. Move to a shadier spot if this occurs.
- Some morning sun is beneficial, but avoid hot afternoon sun shining directly onto the plant. Filter harsh light with a sheer curtain.
Soil
- Use a well-draining potting mix for Hoya shepherdii. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and bark works well.
- The soil should dry out partially between waterings. It must have excellent drainage but also retain some moisture.
- Adding perlite, pumice, or orchid bark creates air pockets for the roots.
- Potting mixes tailored for epiphytic plants are suitable. Avoid soil that is too dense or moisture-retentive.
Watering
- Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. The schedule depends on factors like temperature, light, and humidity.
- Water less frequently in winter since growth slows during this cooler period.
- Increase watering in spring and summer as temperatures rise. The soil may dry out faster when the plant is actively growing.
- Always check if the soil is dry before watering. Stick a finger into the top few inches to check moisture levels.
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the drainage holes. Avoid allowing the pot to sit in water.
Container
- Plant Hoya shepherdii in a pot with drainage holes. Plastic, terra cotta, or glazed ceramic work well.
- Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current root ball. Avoid overpotting.
- Re-pot every 2-3 years in spring after the plant finishes blooming. Use fresh potting mix.
- Hoyas have shallow root systems. Select wider rather than deeper pots when re-potting.
Humidity
- Hoya shepherdii prefers average to high humidity levels of 40-60%.
- Use a humidifier nearby or place its pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
- Mist the leaves every few days using a spray bottle. Avoid wetting the flowers.
- Higher humidity encourages lush growth and more prolific flowering.
- Low humidity causes leaf tip browning. Group plants together to boost local humidity.
Temperature
- Daytime temperatures of 65-80°F (18-27°C) suit Hoya shepherdii well.
- Nighttime lows around 60°F (15°C) are preferable.
- Avoid excessive heat above 80°F (27°C) which causes leaf scorching.
- Cooler winter temperatures around 60°F (15°C) are fine. Growth may slow in winter.
- Moving air from a fan improves air circulation and prevents fungal diseases.
Fertilizer
- Fertilize actively growing Hoya shepherdii plants in spring and summer. Dilute to half strength.
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer or one formulated for flowering houseplants.
- Fertilize once a month during the active growing period.
- Avoid overfertilizing which causes leaf burn. Rinse salts off the leaves after fertilizing.
- Do not fertilize in fall and winter when growth is minimal. Resume in spring.
Pruning
- Prune leggy vines back by a few inches to encourage bushier growth.
- Trim off any dead or damaged leaves and stems to improve appearance.
- Pruning right after flowering finishes redirects energy back into the plant.
- Use sterilized scissors or shears to avoid transferring diseases between plants.
- Remove spent flower clusters to encourage reblooming.
Flowering
- Hoya shepherdii flowers in late spring into summer. It can rebloom through fall with proper care.
- The fragrant flowers have a star shape and bloom in ball-shaped clusters.
- Flower color ranges from cream to pale pink depending on variety.
- High light and moderate fertilizing in spring helps promote abundant flowering.
- Each flower cluster can last 4-6 weeks before fading. The plant may rest after a bloom period.
Common Problems
- Leaf drop – Caused by overwatering, low humidity, or transplant shock. Improve conditions.
- Few flowers – Increase light exposure and fertilize to encourage flowering.
- Leggy growth – Give more sunlight. Prune back long vines.
- Leaf spotting – Treat fungal disease promptly by isolating plant and applying fungicide.
- Root rot – Check that soil drains well and do not overwater. Discard seriously affected plants.
FAQs
How fast does Hoya shepherdii grow?
Hoya shepherdii is a moderately fast growing Hoya variety. When cared for properly, it can grow up to 12 inches per year. Optimal conditions will lead to the quickest growth rate.
Does Hoya shepherdii bloom every year?
Yes, Hoya shepherdii will bloom every year in late spring or summer if given sufficient bright, indirect light. Blooms last 4-6 weeks. After flowering, prune off spent blooms to encourage reblooming.
What is the best fertilizer for Hoya shepherdii?
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to fertilize Hoya shepherdii during the growing season. Apply monthly but avoid overfertilizing which can burn the leaves.
How do I get my Hoya shepherdii to bloom?
To encourage abundant blooming, provide Hoya shepherdii with several hours of bright indirect light daily, average room temperatures around 70°F (21°C), and fertilize monthly in spring and summer. Reduce water in fall and winter.
Why are the leaves on my Hoya shepherdii turning brown?
If the leaf edges are turning brown, it is likely due to low humidity. Increase humidity levels around the plant by misting, using a pebble tray, or moving a humidifier nearby. Brown leaf tips can also be caused by inconsistent watering.
Should I mist my Hoya shepherdii?
Light misting provides added humidity that Hoya shepherdii appreciates. Use room temperature filtered or distilled water and mist a few times per week. Avoid getting the flowers wet. Allow the leaves to fully dry out before nighttime to prevent disease.
Conclusion
With its trailing vines, waxy foliage, and charming blooms, Hoya shepherdii makes an excellent houseplant for beginners or experienced gardeners alike. Place this Hoya in a spot with plentiful bright indirect light. Water thoroughly when the top few inches of soil become dry, providing excellent drainage. Average room temperatures, monthly fertilizing, and mid-range humidity create optimal growing conditions. Prune back leggy growth after flowering. Address issues like leaf browning by improving culture care. With the right care, Hoya shepherdii will thrive indoors for years to come.