If you're looking for a plant with a touch of charm and uniqueness, the Hoya Sweetheart Variegated is perfect! With its heart-shaped, creamy-green leaves, this adorable plant (often called the "Sweetheart Plant" or "Hoya Kerrii") is just as cute as it sounds. Whether you have it as a single heart leaf or a full vine, it's easy to care for and adds a sweet vibe to any room. Here’s how you can take care of it and watch it grow happily.
1. Light
Your Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated' loves bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can be too harsh and may scorch its pretty leaves, so it’s best to avoid that. I like to place mine near a sunny window, but not right in the sun’s path—somewhere the light can bounce around without hitting the plant directly. If you notice the variegated parts of the leaves losing their color or looking dull, that’s a sign it might need a bit more light.
2. Watering
Watering your Hoya can be a bit tricky at first, but once you get used to it, it’s super easy. This plant doesn’t like to be overwatered, so make sure the soil dries out between waterings. The rule I follow is: when the top two inches of soil feel dry, it’s time to water. If you’re not sure, it’s always better to wait a little longer than to water too soon. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which this plant is sensitive to, so make sure the pot has drainage holes to let the water flow out.
In the warmer months (spring and summer), you’ll water it more frequently, while in the cooler months (fall and winter), it will need less water since it’s not actively growing as much.
3. Humidity & Temperature
The Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated' is originally from tropical areas, so it enjoys a little extra humidity. If your home tends to be on the dry side, misting the leaves once in a while or placing the plant near a humidifier can make a big difference. You can also group it with other plants to naturally raise the humidity around them.
As for temperature, it’s happiest in a range between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Keep it away from cold drafts or very hot spots like right next to a heater, as it likes a cozy, steady environment.
4. Soil & Potting
Hoya plants prefer well-draining soil since they don’t like sitting in water. You can use a mix of regular potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite to give it the drainage it needs. I also like to use a terracotta pot, which helps wick away extra moisture and keeps the roots nice and dry.
When it comes to repotting, you don’t need to do it very often. Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated' actually enjoys being a bit root-bound, so repotting only once every two or three years is usually enough. When you do repot, choose a pot that’s just a little bigger than the current one.
5. Fertilizing
During the growing season (spring and summer), your Hoya will appreciate some extra nutrients. A balanced liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks will help it grow strong and keep those heart-shaped leaves looking their best. I usually dilute the fertilizer to half-strength just to make sure I don’t overfeed it. In the fall and winter, you can take a break from fertilizing, as the plant slows down its growth.
6. Pruning
Pruning isn’t something you’ll need to do much with your Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated.' But if you notice any damaged or yellowing leaves, feel free to snip them off with clean scissors. If your Hoya is growing as a vine, you can trim the stems to encourage bushier growth. Just remember that Hoyas bloom from the same spot each year, so try not to prune off the short stems (called peduncles) where flowers grow.
7. Pests
Thankfully, the Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated' isn’t very prone to pests, but you’ll still want to check the leaves every once in a while. If you spot any mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids, gently wipe them off with a damp cloth or use a plant-safe insecticidal soap. Regularly cleaning the leaves will help keep your plant healthy and pest-free.
8. Propagation
One of the most exciting parts of owning a Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated' is that you can easily share it with friends or grow new plants for yourself. The best way to propagate your Hoya is through stem cuttings. Find a healthy stem with at least two or three nodes (those little bumps where the leaves grow), and cut just below one of the nodes.
Place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil, making sure the node is buried. In a few weeks, you’ll see roots forming! If you’re using water, make sure to change it every few days to keep it fresh. Once the roots are about an inch long, you can plant your new Hoya in soil.
9. Blooming
Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated' is known for its cute leaves, but it can also bloom with clusters of sweet-smelling flowers! However, it might take a few years for your plant to bloom, so patience is key. When it’s ready, you’ll be rewarded with small, star-shaped flowers that smell lovely. To encourage blooms, give it plenty of bright, indirect light and avoid moving the plant around too much—Hoyas don’t like to be disturbed once they’re settled.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your Hoya 'Sweetheart Variegated' is simple and rewarding. With its heart-shaped leaves and low-maintenance care routine, it’s the perfect plant for anyone who wants a beautiful, easy-going houseplant. Just give it bright, indirect light, keep the soil from getting too wet, and provide a little extra humidity, and your plant will thrive. Enjoy watching your Sweetheart grow!