The Hoya Sunrise is a stunning hybrid plant known for its colorful foliage. With its mix of green, pink, and cream variegation, this plant adds a tropical flair to any space. Though Hoyas are generally easy to care for, the Hoya Sunrise does have some specific needs to help it thrive. By understanding this plant’s ideal growing conditions and proper care, you can keep your Hoya Sunrise healthy and looking its best.

Getting to Know the Hoya Sunrise

The Hoya Sunrise is a hybrid variety developed by crossbreeding the Hoya carnosa and Hoya serpens. This hybrid is sometimes also referred to as Hoya ‘Sunrise’ or Hoya carnosa ‘Sunrise’.

Some key facts about this plant:

• Originated as a hybrid in Indonesia and gained popularity as a houseplant in the last decade.
• Features oval-shaped, succulent leaves that emerge pink and cream and mature to dark green with pink/cream variegation.
• An evergreen, vining plant that can grow up to 3 feet long.
• Blooms star-shaped, waxy flowers in shades of pink and red primarily in spring and summer.
• Belongs to the dogbane family Apocynaceae. It is related to other Hoyas and ornamental plants like Plumeria.
• Native to tropical Asia and Australia but thrives as a houseplant.

With its colorful foliage and trailing vines, the Hoya Sunrise works well in hanging baskets or trailing from a high shelf. The flowers add a pop of color when in bloom. Overall, this plant makes a great low-maintenance houseplant.

Providing the Right Growing Conditions

Hoya Sunrise thrives best in the following growing conditions:

Light

• Prefers bright, indirect light for at least 6 hours a day. East or west-facing windows are ideal.
• Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
• Direct hot sun will scorch the leaves. Acclimate it gradually if moving into brighter light.

Temperature

• Thrives in normal household temperatures between 60°F to 80°F.
• Can tolerate cooler temps above 50°F, but growth may slow. Avoid drafty areas.
• Ideal temperature range is 65°F to 75°F.

Humidity

• Appreciates 40% to 60% ambient humidity.
• Increase humidity by misting regularly or using a pebble tray.
• Low humidity causes leaf tips to brown and drop.

Water

• Allow soil to partially dry out between waterings. Loams to dry quickly.
• Water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes.
• Drooping leaves indicate under-watering. Yellow leaves may signal overwatering.
• Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.

Soil

• Quick-draining potting mix, i.e., equal parts potting soil, perlite, bark.
• Soil should retain some moisture but not get waterlogged.

Fertilizer

• Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• No need for fertilization in fall and winter.

Pot Size

• Should be potted in a container 1 to 2 sizes larger than the root ball.
• Prefers being slightly rootbound but repot every 2 to 3 years.

By providing the preferred growing conditions, you can keep your Hoya Sunrise healthy and looking its best. Be sure not to overwater, as that is the most common cause of problems with this plant.

Caring for Your Hoya Sunrise

Caring for your Hoya Sunrise involves providing proper sunlight, water, humidity, feeding, pruning, and dealing with potential issues. Here are some tips:

Sunlight

• Place in bright, indirect light indoors near an east or west window. Avoid direct southern exposure.
• Rotate the plant periodically so all sides get adequate light exposure.
• Light from a north window may be too dim without supplemental lighting.
• Leaves losing variegation and becoming solid green indicate insufficient light.

Watering

• Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Check by inserting a finger into the soil.
• Water thoroughly until excess drains from the pot. Use room temperature water if possible.
• Reduce watering frequency in winter when growth slows.
• Drooping leaves suggest under-watering. Wilting and yellowing point to overwatering.

Humidity

• Hoya Sunrise prefers 40% to 60% ambient humidity. This can be increased through:
• Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
• Mist the plant daily using a spray bottle. Focus on the leaves’ undersides.
• Use a humidifier in the room during dry weather.
• Group plants together to create a humid microclimate.

Fertilizing

• Fertilize monthly in spring through summer using a balanced houseplant formula diluted to half strength.
• Discontinue feeding over winter when growth slows.
• Flush the soil monthly by watering thoroughly to prevent buildup of excess fertilizer salts.

Pruning

• Remove dry, dead leaves by pinching near the base.
• Trim off leggy vines to encourage bushier growth. Make cuts above leaf nodes.
• Prune back up to one-third of the plant before the main growing season.

General Care

• Dust the leaves occasionally with a soft cloth to keep them clean and healthy.
• Rotate the pot periodically to ensure even growth on all sides.
• Propagate new plants from tip cuttings taken in spring or summer.
• Repot every 2 to 3 years in spring using fresh potting mix. Go up 1 pot size.

Troubleshooting Issues

Leaves turning yellow – This often signals overwatering. Allow soil to dry out further between waterings.

Dry leaf tips – Increase humidity levels around the plant. Mist leaves regularly.

Leggy growth – Give more light exposure or prune back long vines.

Few or no flowers – Hoya Sunrise may need more sunlight to bloom properly. Fertilize regularly in spring.

Leaf drop – Check for under-watering or low humidity. Make adjustments as needed.

With the proper care, the Hoya Sunrise makes a fairly easy and resilient houseplant. Pay close attention to its watering, lighting, and humidity needs for optimal health.

Propagating Hoya Sunrise

Hoya Sunrise can be easily propagated from stem cuttings during the spring and summer months. Follow these simple steps:

Getting a Cutting

• Take 3-5 inch tip cuttings from a healthy mother plant in spring or summer.
• Use a sterile, sharp knife or scissors to detach the cutting below a node.
• Remove the lowest set of leaves by pinching them off with your fingers.

Preparing the Cutting

• Allow fresh cut end to dry and callous over for 1-2 days before planting.
• Dip calloused end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth (optional).

Planting

• Plant calloused cuttings in small pots filled with well-draining potting mix.
• Insert the cuttings a few inches deep leaving 1-2 nodes above the soil.
• Gently firm down the soil and water lightly to settle.

Caring for New Cuttings

• Place pots in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun.
• Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Mist leaves daily for added humidity.
• Remove any flowers or buds that may form to direct energy toward root growth.

Transplanting

• New cuttings should be well rooted in 8-10 weeks. Check for root development before transplanting.
• Transplant into a 4 inch pot using fresh potting mix. Bury about 2/3 of the cutting.
• Care for newly transplanted cuttings as normal mature Hoya Sunrise plants.

Propagating Hoya Sunrise from cuttings is quite straightforward. In a few months, you’ll have new free plants to expand your collection or give as gifts!

Common Pests and Problems

When provided with proper growing conditions and care, Hoya Sunrise is generally pest and disease resistant. However, here are some potential issues to watch for:

Mealybugs

These small, white cottony insects suck sap and reduce plant vigor. Treat with insecticidal soap or remove manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.

Aphids

Green, black or white small, pear-shaped insects that cluster on leaves and stems. Rinse off with water or use insecticidal soap.

Fungal diseases

Overwatering can lead to fungal issues like root rot, stem rot and leaf spot. Improve drainage and water less frequently. Remove affected parts promptly.

Sunburn

Direct hot sunlight can scorch the leaves leaving brown spots. Move to brighter indirect light. Mist leaves to cool.

Leaf drop

Significant leaf drop may occur if conditions are too cold, too hot, too wet or too dry. Adjust care and environment.

Flower drop

Lack of sunlight, overwatering, pests, or incorrect temperature can cause flower buds to shrivel and fall off. Improve growing conditions.

With prompt identification and treatment of any issues, you can keep your Hoya Sunrise healthy and thriving for years to come.

FAQs about Growing Hoya Sunrise

What type of soil does Hoya Sunrise need?

Hoya Sunrise thrives in a well-draining potting mix made with equal parts potting soil, perlite and orchid bark. Soil should retain some moisture but also allow excess water to drain away easily.

How much sunlight does a Hoya Sunrise require?

This plant needs bright, indirect sunlight for around 6 hours per day. An east or west window is ideal in most homes. Direct hot sunlight will burn the leaves.

What is the ideal temperature range for Hoya Sunrise?

Normal household temperatures between 60°F to 80°F suit this plant best. It can handle slightly cooler climates above 50°F but avoid drafty locations.

How often should I water my Hoya Sunrise?

Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, then soak thoroughly. Water less in winter, about once every 10-14 days. Signs of under-watering include drooping leaves.

How do I increase humidity for my Hoya plant?

Hoya Sunrise prefers 40% – 60% humidity. This can be increased by using a humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping plants together. Mist leaves regularly as well.

Should I prune my Hoya Sunrise?

Light pruning can encourage bushier growth. Trim back leggy vines above a leaf node. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and flowers. Limit major pruning to before the main growing season.

What’s the best way to propagate Hoya Sunrise?

Take 3-5 inch stem tip cuttings in spring or summer. Allow to callous then plant in potting mix. Keep warm and moist. New cuttings should root in around 8 weeks and can be repotted after.

How do I get my Hoya Sunrise to bloom?

Ensure the plant gets enough bright, indirect light. Fertilize regularly in spring and summer. Mature, well-cared for plants will generally flower naturally in time. Avoid repotting right before the blooming period.

Why are the leaves on my Hoya turning yellow?

Yellow leaves most often indicate overwatering issues. Allow the soil to dry further between waterings. Remove any saturated soil and stop fertilizing until the plant recovers.

Final Thoughts

With its colorful variegated foliage and trailing vining growth habit, Hoya Sunrise makes a tropical statement in any indoor space. Though relatively low maintenance, providing this plant with proper sunlight, water, humidity, and care will keep it thriving. Follow the tips above to successfully grow this eye-catching houseplant for years of enjoyment. Hoya Sunrise’s blooms and foliage are sure to brighten your home.

How to Grow and Care for Hoya Sunrise – FAQs

How much sunlight does a Hoya Sunrise need?

Hoya Sunrise does best with bright, indirect sunlight for around 6 hours per day. An east or west-facing window is ideal for providing the right amount and intensity of light. Direct hot sunlight can scorch the leaves. If light levels are too low, the leaves may become more solid green.

What temperature range is preferred by Hoya Sunrise?

Normal household temperatures between 60°F to 80°F are suitable for Hoya Sunrise. Avoid drafty areas and protect from cold below 50°F. The ideal temperature range is 65°F to 75°F. Higher heat can be tolerated if humidity levels are increased.

What type of soil should I use for a Hoya Sunrise?

Hoya Sunrise prefers a well-aerated, quick-draining potting mix. A good blend is equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. The soil needs to retain some moisture but also allow excess water to drain away easily. A general houseplant potting mix amended with extra perlite can also work well.

How often should I water my Hoya Sunrise?

Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings, then soak the soil completely. In warmer months, this may mean watering every 7-10 days on average. In cooler winter months, water every 10-14 days when the plant is growing more slowly. The foliage will appear droopy and wilted when underwatered.

How can I increase humidity for my Hoya plant?

Hoya Sunrise thrives best with 40% to 60% ambient humidity. This can be increased by using a humidifier or pebble tray. Misting the leaves daily, especially the undersides, also helps. Group plants together to create a beneficial humid microclimate.

Should I fertilize my Hoya Sunrise? How often?

Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once per month through the growing season in spring and summer. Fertilizing is generally not needed in fall and winter when growth slows. Flush the soil monthly with water to prevent buildup of salts.

How do I prune and shape my Hoya Sunrise?

Light pruning keeps Hoya Sunrise bushy and full. Trim back leggy vines above a leaf node. Remove dead leaves and spent flowers by pinching near the base. Limit major pruning to just before the main growing season begins. Take 3-5 inch tip cuttings for easy propagation.

How do I get my Hoya to bloom more?

Ensure your Hoya gets adequate bright, indirect light daily. Apply fertilizer regularly spring through summer. Allow it to become slightly rootbound and avoid repotting right before flower season. Mature, healthy plants will flower more than juvenile ones. Removing spent blooms may encourage reblooming.

What causes leaf yellowing and drop on my Hoya?

Yellow leaves that drop excessively are most often caused by overwatering issues. Allow the soil dry further between waterings. Remove any saturated soil and stop fertilizing until the plant recovers. Insufficient light can also cause leaf drop over time.

Why are the leaf tips browning?

Dry, crispy leaf tips indicate low humidity around the plant. Increase humidity through pebble trays, misting, or humidifiers. Keep the plant away from heating and cooling vents which can dry the air. Ensure the plant itself is not allowed to dry out completely.

How do I propagate my Hoya Sunrise?

Take 3-5 inch tip cuttings in spring or summer. Allow the ends to callous then plant in potting mix. Keep warm and moist, mist regularly, and avoid direct sun. New cuttings should root in 6-8 weeks. Transplant into a 4 inch pot once well rooted. Grow these cuttings on as normal Hoya Sunrise plants.

How often should I repot my Hoya Sunrise?

Repot every 2-3 years in spring, moving up just 1 pot size. Hoyas are fine being somewhat rootbound. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark. Remove some of the old soil to refresh the roots. Take cuttings first to propagate before repotting the mother plant.

Why is my Hoya not blooming?

Insufficient light is the most common cause of no flowers. Ensure the plant gets 6+ hours of bright indirect light daily. Immature plants under 3 years may not bloom. Avoid repotting right before flowering season. Use fertilizer to encourage blooming in spring and summer.

By understanding the specific preferences of Hoya Sunrise in terms of light, water, humidity and care, you can help this exotic plant thrive indoors. Pay close attention to its needs, and your Hoya will reward you with lush foliage and bright blooms for years to come.

How to Grow and Care for Hoya Sunrise

Introduction

Hoya Sunrise is a stunning houseplant prized for its colorful variegated foliage and star-shaped blooms. This hybrid plant is a cross between Hoya carnosa and Hoya serpens. With the right care and growing conditions, Hoya Sunrise makes an easy and rewarding indoor plant that can be enjoyed for many years.

Optimal Growing Conditions

Light

• Hoya Sunrise thrives in bright, indirect sunlight for around 6 hours daily.
• An east or west-facing window is ideal in most homes.
• The leaves will fade and lose variegation if light is insufficient.
• Direct hot sunlight will scorch the leaves.

Temperature

• This plant does best at normal household temperatures between 60°F – 80°F.
• It can tolerate slightly cooler climates but avoid drafts.
• Ideal range is 65°F – 75°F during the day and above 50°F at night.

#