
Identification
Genus | Hoya |
Origin | India, Indonesia, Thailand, Fiji |
Light | Bright light |
Watering Frequency | Allow soil to dry completely between waterings |
Toxicity | Non-Toxic |
Looking for Hoya Obovata in Canada?
Characteristics
The Hoya Obovata is defined by its thick, green, succulent-like leaves that are ovular in shape that appear to be speckled lightly with white or pink paint.
Like most Hoyas, the Hoya Obovata does well with a light watering hand and bright light – making the variety a fun and easy-going plant to grow indoors.
Origin and Indoor Environment
Hoya Obovata is native to India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Fiji, where it grows epiphytically – using the trunks and branches of trees to support it’s growth upwards.
When grown indoors, you can also opt to put the plant on a trellis to mimic it’s natural environment – or simply allow the plant to trail from a ceramic or terracotta pot.
Lighting Needs
Like other Hoya types, the Hoya Obovata requires bright light to thrive. It is not recommended that you place this this variety in low-light conditions.
East, West, and even South-facing windows are optimal for those of us living in Canada (or in the Northern Hemisphere).
Watering Frequency
The Hoya Obovata does well with a gentle watering hand (similar to succulents). As such, we recommend waiting for the soil to completely dry out in between waterings.
If you’re unsure if the soil is dry (without moisture), you can also use tools like moisture meters that indicate to the user how moist the soil is.
If you do not have a moisture meter on hand, simply stick your finger directly into the soil – if the first 2 inches of soil is dry than it’s time for water. If the soil is still moist, hold off and check back in a couple days until the soil is completely dry.
Potting Mix, Soil, and Fertilization
The Hoya Obovata prefers well-draining, chunky soil. You can mix your own soil or purchase a chunky potting mix for your plant.
Fertilizing your Hoya Obovata in the growing season (spring and summer) is also essential for ensuring that your plant is getting all the nutrients it needs. Opt for a complete fertilizer to ensure your Hoya Obovata’s long-term success.
Hoya Obovata Blooms
Your Hoya Obovata will need to be at least 2 years old in order for it to be able to bloom. Ensure your Obovata is receiving the correct growing conditions (bright light, infrequent waterings, chunky potting mix) to increase the likelihood of a bloom from occurring.
Propagation
You can propagate the Hoya Obovata easily in water – simply take a cutting with at least 2 nodes and remove the leaves from the bottom node. Simply place the cuttings in water, and replenish the water weekly.
Once the roots have grown at least an inch, you’ll be able to easily transfer them to soil.
Pests and Disease
Hoyas can be the targets of the usual houseplant pest culprits: aphids, mealybugs, scale, and spider mites have been known to take a liking to Hoyas.
To mitigate the likelihood of an infestation from occurring we recommend regularly cleaning the leaves of your Hoya Obovata as well as using a deterring agent such as neem oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hoya Obovata a fast grower?
Hoya Obovata can be a fast grower in the right growing conditions. They require bright, direct light, infrequent waterings, chunky potting mix, and regular fertilization in the growing season to encourage growth.
What does Hoya Obovata smell like?
The Hoya Obovata bloom has a strong sweet, floral scent.
How do you care for Hoya Obovata?
Hoya Obovata prefer bright, direct light (East, West, and South facing windows could work), infrequent waterings (wait for the soil to dry out between waterings), chunky, well draining potting mix, and fertilization in the growing season.
Varieties
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