Hoya parasitica (Splash)

Specifications:

Scientific name: Hoya parasitica

Common names: Hoya som acuta, Hoya parasitica, Hoya verticillata

Origin: South East Asia

Flower colour: White with pink-purple centers

Genus: Hoya

Family: Apocynaceae

Kingdom: Plantae

Type:Flowering vine

Summary:

• Bright, indirect light.
• Trailing or twining growth habit.
• Allow soil to dry slightly before watering.
• Optimal humidity 50% or more

Light Requirements:

• Hoya parasitica is adaptable to a variety of lighting situations. Give it bright, indirect light, though, to encourage its best growth and more flowers.
• Plants adore light. And the faster it grows, the more light it receives. It will also grow more leaves, increasing its likelihood of blooming. But too much light can also be harmful.
• The Hoya parasitica lives beneath the branches and leaves of very big trees because it is native to Southeast Asian forests. The strongest sun rays are also refracted by these trees.
• As a result, the plant is not accustomed to absorbing very intense or strong light. This is why indirect, filtered, dappled, or diffused light is the most appropriate type. More importantly, if it is frequently exposed to long periods of direct sun, you will notice that its leaves become discolored and may even scorch.
• On the other hand, the plant will also thrive in low and medium light conditions. Maintaining it in a well-lit space is essential. I do not advise leaving it in low light because of this it won’t grow flowers there, even though it will be fine there, that is the reason. And if it does, you won’t see them for a longer period of time.

Temperature Requirements:

• Another crucial aspect of caring for Hoya parasitica is temperature. It is relatively simple because the plant can withstand a wide range of climatic conditions, similar to how light is. However, you need to be more cautious in this situation.
• Due to the plant’s inability to withstand the cold, avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50 degrees.
• It can survive in USDA Zones 10 and 11, where the winters are sunny and without snow, and the summers are generally mild.
• If you reside below these areas, bring the plant inside as soon as the temperature approaches 50 degrees.
• The Hoya parasitica thrives in environments with temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
• It prefers certain types of weather because of its origin. The plant is indigenous to Southeast Asia, where the temperature can range from warm to extremely hot, depending on the season.
• The coldest temperatures during the winter are typically around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are similarly warm. The area also enjoys year-round sunshine, with the exception of the rainy season from August to October. As a result, the Hoya parasitica prefers environments that are moderately warm or warm, and it is intolerant of the cold.

Humidity Requirements:

• The Hoya parasitica's preferred humidity varies depending on its origin. Southeast Asia is not only warm but also extremely humid.
• Generally speaking, the humidity there ranges from 55% to 90%, depending on the season. This remains near the upper end of that range when it rains. However, the average humidity level typically exceeds 60%. The Hoya Parasitica appreciates humid conditions as a result.
• If given the option, it prefers humidity levels between 50% and 80%. Luckily, it can tolerate lower humidity thanks to its thick, succulent-like leaves. This enables it to withstand indoor humidity levels of at least 40%. It will therefore thrive as long as you can maintain this level of air moisture.
• It is strongly advised to purchase a digital hygrometer if you reside somewhere with dry air. By doing so, you can monitor how much the humidity decreases throughout the year. By doing this, you can mist the plant when the humidity level is just right. You can also spend money on a humidifier.

Watering Requirements:

• The Hoya parasitica requires little water. Its epiphyte status contributes to this in part. Another explanation is that the semi-succulent leaves of the plant store water to support it during dry spells. As a result, you should be cautious when using too much water because the plant can become damaged.
• Its roots enjoy breathing, just like other epiphytes. This means that if they are exposed to water for an extended period of time, they will eventually be at risk of developing root rot.
• Water it typically once per week during the summer. In the winter, once every two to three weeks.
• Prior to adding more water, it is crucial to wait until some of the soil has dried. You can avoid overwatering in this way. So, if you water frequently, try to wait until the top 2 inches of soil are dry before watering again. Try to water once the soil dries to between 50% and 75% of its original moisture content if you are busy, forgetful, or tardy with your watering. Anywhere in this region works well.

Soil Requirements:

• Watering and potting soil work in tandem. This is because it won’t matter that you waited until some of the soil dried before watering if you use dense or heavy soils that retain moisture. The roots eventually run the risk of standing in too much water or becoming waterlogged because the soil will retain a large portion of the water you pour onto it. Don’t use this type of soil with your Hoya parasitica. Although it might benefit other plants, it will eventually be fatal to your Parasitica.
• On the other hand, a well-draining potting mix makes the best soil for your Hoya parasitica. This will assist in removing extra moisture to ensure that the roots receive adequate hydration without becoming submerged in water.
• You can use any of the homemade potting mixtures listed below for Hoya parasitica.
• 1 part cactus mix with 1 part orchid mix and 1 part perlite
• 1 part potting soil and 1 part perlite or pumice
• 1 part potting soil with 1 part orchid bark

Fertilizing Requirements:

• During the spring and summer, feed the plant once every month to once every two weeks. As the Hoya parasitica is not a heavy feeder, this amount of fertilizer will be sufficient.
• The N-P-K formulation of a balanced liquid fertilizer with a 15-15-15 ratio can be diluted by half strength by adding water before application.
• The plant will receive all the nutrients it requires as a result. Additionally, it contains a healthy amount of nitrogen, which will promote leaf growth.
• The plant won’t grow as much if you feed it in the late fall and winter because of the cold.
• However, if you reside in a tropical area, the plant will continue to grow all year long due to the warmth and sunshine. You can continue to feed the plant in this situation. In Southeast Asia, people fertilize their plants all year long for this reason.