Hoya kerrii – The Iconic Heart-Shaped Houseplant

Hoya kerrii Craib is a slow-growing epiphytic vine known for its signature heart-shaped leaves and low-maintenance personality. Native to low- to mid-elevation semi-deciduous forests across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, southern China, and Java, this tropical species climbs trees in bright, filtered light and dry conditions. Indoors, it thrives with minimal effort, making it a favourite among collectors, beginners, and anyone who loves bold, sculptural foliage.
Why Hoya kerrii stands out
 
Thick, heart-shaped leaves: Glossy, rigid, and succulent-like with faint central veins – a striking visual on any shelf or trellis.
 
Climbing or trailing: Supports moss poles or cascades beautifully in hanging baskets once established.
 
Blooms worth the wait: Clusters of 15 – 25 fuzzy, star-shaped flowers with creamy corollas and red-pink centres. Fragrant, especially in the evening.
 
True low-fuss care: Stores moisture in its leaves and tolerates infrequent watering and lower humidity.
Natural habitat and botanical origin
Collected by botanist A.F.G. Kerr in 1911 and described later that year by W. Craib, Hoya kerrii grows epiphytically on tree trunks in seasonal forests at elevations between 200 – 800 m. It prefers dappled light, high airflow, and dry roots between rains — conditions that can be easily mimicked in bright, warm indoor settings.
Indoor care for a thriving Hoya kerrii
 
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. A few hours of soft morning sun are fine — avoid intense midday rays.
 
Water: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Water less if temperatures or light levels drop.
 
Humidity: Comfortable between 40 – 60%. Extra humidity supports larger vines but isn’t essential.
 
Temperature: Best between 18 – 26 °C. Protect from frost, drafts, and heat vents.
 
Substrate: Use a fast-draining mix like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or cactus soil. Avoid compact peat-based soil.
 
Fertilizing: Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser once per month during active growth. Skip during winter dormancy.
 
Repotting: Only when rootbound. Hoya kerrii prefers snug pots and resents disturbance — terracotta with drainage is ideal.
 
Hydroponics: Adapts well to LECA or semi-hydro setups if kept in stable light and warmth with occasional nutrient flushing.
Propagation notes and common myths
Important: Single-leaf cuttings — often sold as “Valentine Hoyas” — rarely produce vines unless a node is attached. For proper propagation, use a stem cutting with at least one viable node. Root in water, moss, or well-draining substrate under warm, humid conditions.
Don’t cut peduncles: Flowers emerge from old spurs (peduncles) that rebloom over time. Always leave them intact when pruning.
Troubleshooting and care tips
 
Yellowing leaves: Usually from overwatering or low light. Let soil dry completely and increase brightness.
 
Brown edges: Caused by dry air or inconsistent watering. Try a pebble tray or humidifier if needed.
 
Soft or wrinkled leaves: Root rot or overwatering. Unpot and inspect roots if symptoms persist.
 
Pests: Check for mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids on new growth. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Is Hoya kerrii toxic?
While not classified as highly toxic, all Hoyas release a sticky latex sap that can irritate skin or mouths. Keep away from pets and children to be safe.
Botanical reference
Hoya kerrii CraibPublished in: Craib (1911), Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1911: 418
Perfect pairings and final notes
Hoya kerrii pairs beautifully with trailing Hoyas like Hoya australis or texture-rich species like Philodendron gloriosum. For best results, train it on a moss pole or let it drape over shelves in a bright room.
Order your Hoya kerrii today
Whether you’re drawn to the symbolic heart-shaped leaves or after a low-effort, high-impact houseplant, Hoya kerrii delivers. Slow to start but long-lived and deeply rewarding — a perfect gift or forever plant. Add it to your collection today!