Hoya kerrii ‘Splash’ – Heart-Shaped Leaves with a Splash of Personality

Hoya kerrii Craib ‘Splash’ is a unique cultivar of the beloved Sweetheart Hoya, valued for its thick, heart-shaped leaves marbled with silvery-white splashes. Unlike the single-leaf cuttings often sold around Valentine’s Day, a fully rooted plant will eventually grow long vines, bloom with fragrant flowers, and become a standout piece in any indoor collection. Slow to start but easy to care for, it’s perfect for collectors and beginners alike.


What sets ‘Splash’ apart?

Decorative variegation: Irregular silvery splashes make each leaf distinct. The thick, leathery leaves can grow 6 – 10 cm long and 5 – 8 cm wide.
Climbing or trailing growth: Given support, it climbs slowly but steadily. Also looks striking in a hanging basket.
Fragrant blooms: Mature plants produce umbels of 15 – 25 fuzzy, star-shaped flowers with cream corollas and pinkish-red corona lobes. The scent is most noticeable in the evening.
Easy-going care: Stores moisture in its leaves and thrives with minimal attention once established.


Natural habitat and cultivar background
Hoya kerrii grows epiphytically in semi-deciduous and mixed forests across Southeast Asia — including Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Java, and parts of China — typically at elevations of 200 – 800 m. It was first described by W. Craib in 1911. The ‘Splash’ form is an unpatented horticultural selection with unknown origin, widely propagated for its decorative foliage.


Hoya kerrii ‘Splash’ care guide

Light: Needs bright, indirect light to maintain splash variegation. Can tolerate gentle morning sun.
Water: Allow the substrate to dry completely between waterings. These leaves retain water exceptionally well.
Humidity: Comfortable at 40 – 60%. Extra humidity helps in active growth phases but isn’t essential.
Temperature: Ideal range: 18 – 26 °C. Protect from sudden cold and avoid exposure to drafts.
Substrate: Use a fast-draining mix of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or cactus soil. Avoid compact peat mixes.
Feeding: Fertilise monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength.
Repotting: Only repot when rootbound. This species prefers snug pots and is slow to adjust after root disturbance.
Support: Add a bamboo trellis or moss pole for vertical growth, or let vines trail freely.


Propagation and realistic growth expectations
Only stem cuttings with at least one node can develop into full plants. Single-leaf cuttings are decorative but almost never produce vines. Root cuttings in water, sphagnum, or loose substrate under warm, bright conditions. New growth may take months to appear — patience is key.
Once vines begin to grow, avoid cutting off the flower peduncles. Hoya kerrii reblooms from the same spots year after year.


Common issues and how to prevent them

Yellowing leaves: Most often caused by overwatering or insufficient light. Let soil dry fully and move to a brighter location.
Root rot: Use a well-draining mix and avoid letting water sit in saucers.
Browning tips: Usually from dry air or irregular watering. Use a humidifier or adjust schedule as needed.
Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, or scale may appear. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Latex sap warning: When damaged, Hoya kerrii exudes a sticky white sap. This can irritate skin and harden on leaves and peduncles — gently wipe off if visible.


Is Hoya kerrii ‘Splash’ safe for pets?
Not listed as toxic, but the sap may cause irritation if chewed. Best kept out of reach of pets and children.


Botanical details
Species: Hoya kerrii CraibPublished in: Craib. (1911). Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1911: 418‘Splash’ is a commercial clone with splash variegation — not a registered cultivar.


Display tips and pairing ideas
Let ‘Splash’ climb or trail naturally for the best visual impact. It pairs beautifully with upright species like Hoya obovata or textural companions like Sansevieria or Monstera siltepecana.


Order your Hoya kerrii ‘Splash’ today
This heart-shaped, splash-marked Hoya brings sculptural foliage and subtle charm to any space. Whether you’re gifting or collecting, it’s a plant that rewards patience with lasting beauty. Add yours to the collection now.