Hoya kerrii variegata – Cream-Rimmed Heart Leaves for Any Space
Hoya kerrii Craib ‘variegata’ is a rare, slow-growing cultivar of the beloved Sweetheart Hoya. Its signature thick, heart-shaped leaves are rimmed in creamy yellow or pale green, bringing a graphic, sculptural feel to shelves, desks, and hanging baskets. With the right care and lots of patience, it may even reward you with sweet-smelling flowers — but most people grow it for the leaves alone.
What makes this variegated form special?

 
Distinctive foliage: 6 – 10 cm long, 5 – 8 cm wide heart-shaped leaves, edged in yellow or pale green. Each leaf is slightly different.
 
Thick and waxy: Leaves store water efficiently and feel almost succulent — no fussy watering required.
 
Slow but steady: Grows slowly, especially as a variegated form. Perfect for patient collectors and minimalists.
 
Occasional blooms: Older plants may produce fuzzy, fragrant flowers in clusters — creamy-white with purple centers.

How Hoya kerrii variegata grows in nature
This species is native to Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, southern Vietnam, Java, and southern China. It grows epiphytically on trees in semi-deciduous forests at 200 – 800 m elevation. Its thick leaves and slow metabolism help it survive dry periods in high branches, clinging to bark in filtered light.
Care tips to keep it thriving indoors

 
Light: Needs bright, indirect light. Direct sun can bleach pale edges or cause browning. Morning sun is fine; avoid harsh afternoon rays.
 
Watering: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Water deeply, then drain thoroughly. Never keep it constantly moist.
 
Humidity: Normal indoor humidity (40 – 60%) is fine. Higher humidity helps root cuttings but isn’t essential once established.
 
Temperature: Best kept between 18 – 26 °C. Protect from drafts or heat spikes.
 
Substrate: Use a loose, fast-draining mix of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or cactus soil. Never use dense potting mix.
 
Fertilizer: Feed with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once per month during spring and summer.
 
Repotting: Only repot when rootbound — every 2 – 3 years at most. Choose a pot with drainage and avoid oversized containers.
 
Support: Let vines hang, or train them up a trellis or hoop. The plant climbs slowly, but shapes beautifully over time.

Propagation and growth expectations
Only stem cuttings with at least one node will grow into full plants. Single-leaf cuttings sold as gifts will stay decorative — they will not vine or bloom. Root cuttings in water or sphagnum moss and keep warm, bright, and humid. New growth may take months, especially in variegated clones. Patience is essential.
Understanding its flowers
Hoya kerrii variegata may bloom after several years if kept rootbound, warm, and well-lit. Flowers appear in clusters (umbels) of 15 – 25 blooms, each about 1 cm wide, with creamy corollas and reddish-pink centers. Peduncles must be left intact — never cut them off, as Hoyas rebloom from the same spot.
Common problems and how to fix them

 
Yellowing leaves: Most often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Let soil dry completely before rewatering.
 
Brown tips or edges: Can result from too much sun, low humidity, or erratic watering.
 
No new growth: Normal in variegated forms, especially early on. Ensure adequate light, and don't overwater or overpot.
 
Mealybugs or spider mites: Treat with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or biological control like ladybugs.
 
Latex sap: Cutting leaves or stems releases white sap. It can harden on peduncles or leaves — wipe gently and keep away from pets.

Where to place it indoors
Place near an east-facing or bright west-facing window for ideal light exposure. Shelves, desks, or hanging pots all work well. Avoid dark corners or windowless rooms — light is crucial for both variegation and future blooms.
Botanical details
Species: Hoya kerrii Craib

Published in: Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1911: 418

Form: ‘variegata’ is a horticultural selection with no published taxonomic status
FAQ – Quick answers

 
Is it safe for pets?

 The sap may cause mild irritation or stomach upset if chewed. Best kept out of reach of pets and children.
 
Can I put it outside in summer?

 Yes, if temperatures are above 18 °C. Keep in bright shade and avoid midday sun.
 
Why isn’t it growing?

 Growth is naturally slow — especially in variegated forms. Ensure warmth, light, and avoid disturbing the roots.
 
How long until it flowers?

 Usually 3 – 5 years, only under optimal conditions. Keep it rootbound and well-lit, and never remove peduncles.

Order Hoya kerrii variegata today
This slow-growing but striking Hoya is perfect for collectors, minimalists, and plant lovers who appreciate beauty that builds over time. Bring home Hoya kerrii variegata and enjoy years of sculptural foliage — and maybe even blooms.