Hoya kerrii

Common Names

Sweetheart Plant, Sweetheart Hoya, Valentine Hoya, Heart Leaf Hoya, Wax Hearts, Hoya Hearts, Lucky Hearts Plant

Summary

Sweetheart plant is a heart-shaped leaf evergreen vine native to Southeast Asia, growing slowly as an epiphytic/lithophytic climber with thick waxy leaves. It trails or climbs and can bear clusters of small waxy star-shaped flowers; commonly sold as a single heart-shaped leaf cutting, with variegated forms available.

Cultivation focuses on bright indirect light with some direct sun tolerated after acclimation, well-draining airy soil, and waterings that occur only after the soil dries to avoid soggy roots; typical temperature 60–80°F and humidity 40–60%; use containers with drainage and repot every 2–3 years; propagation mainly via stem cuttings with nodes (leaf cuttings require a node), and pruning is minimal; suitable for hanging baskets or trailing displays indoors.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-13 feet

Spread

1-3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 11-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial sun; bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight.

Soil Type

Well-draining, airy soil; epiphytic-style mixes such as orchid potting mix with perlite and orchid bark, or cactus/succulent mixes with perlite or pumice

Soil Drainage

Very well-drained, airy soil that dries out between waterings.

Soil pH

6.0-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

White and pink, with creamy-white variations.

Bloom Time

Summer

Foliage Color

Green (solid green leaves; variegated forms with white patches or creamy borders)

Fall Foliage Color

Medium green, may appear more yellow in brighter light

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Cuttings, Layering, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts nighttime pollinators