Hoya kerrii 'Albomarginata' - The Outer Variegated Sweetheart Hoya

Fall in love with the iconic Hoya kerrii 'Albomarginata', a truly captivating Hoya variety celebrated for its distinctive, thick, heart-shaped leaves. This "Sweetheart Hoya" boasts a stunning creamy white or golden-yellow margin that beautifully outlines a rich green center, creating a striking contrast that resembles a living piece of art. Each succulent leaf is a testament to natural beauty, making it a cherished addition to any plant collection.

Heart-Shaped Perfection, Elegant Vines

The 'Albomarginata' stands out with its bold, outer variegation that truly makes each heart-shaped leaf pop. While often seen as single "sweetheart" leaves, this Hoya matures into a graceful vining plant, producing long tendrils adorned with a succession of these charming variegated hearts. The stems can grow up to 13 feet long, making it perfect for allowing its thick vines to trail elegantly from shelves or adorning a small trellis to show off its unique foliage. Under optimal conditions, mature plants may even surprise you with clusters of delicate, fragrant, star-shaped flowers that are creamy-white with pink to rose-purple centers.

The TC Advantage

Our tissue culture (TC) propagation ensures you receive a robust, pest-free plant with multiple growth points already established. This means faster, fuller growth from day one, so you can enjoy those beautiful, trailing vines and striking variegation sooner.

Care & Growth

Light: Provide bright, indirect light to encourage the most vibrant variegation. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, shield it from harsh afternoon rays, which can scorch its delicate margins.

Watering: As a semi-succulent, the 'Albomarginata' stores water in its thick leaves. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. It's much better to underwater than overwater. You can often tell it needs water when its leaves feel slightly less plump.

Humidity: This Hoya appreciates moderate to higher humidity levels but adapts well to average household humidity. Misting occasionally or placing it near a humidifier can be beneficial.

Soil: Use a well-draining, porous soil mix. An orchid potting mix or a blend with coconut husk works excellently for proper drainage.

Growth & Display: Hoya kerrii is a slow-growing plant, rewarding patience with stunning foliage. Allow its woody vines to trail or gently guide them up a small trellis or support to showcase its unique heart-shaped leaves. Avoid trimming the long tendrils, as new leaves and potential blooms emerge from these points.

Pro Tip

Think of your Hoya kerrii as a succulent when it comes to care - it thrives on neglect! These plants prefer lots of bright light and infrequent watering. Give it a sunny spot and water only when the soil is completely dry, and it will reward you with healthy growth.

Pro Tip #2

Be careful if buying single-leaf cuttings of this plant from other sources - if they don't have a vine, they will never grow new leaves! While those adorable single heart leaves are popular gifts, they're essentially just temporary living decorations without growth potential. Look for cuttings that include stem sections with nodes to ensure you're getting a plant that can actually develop into a full, trailing Hoya.

Propagation

Hoya kerrii can be propagated through stem cuttings that include nodes. Place cuttings in water to develop roots, keeping leaves above water level. After a few months of root development, you can plant them in well-draining soil. The beautiful variegation will be passed on to new plants.

Pet Safety Statement

Great news! This plant is pet-safe and non-toxic for both cats and dogs according to the ASPCA. While ingestion of large quantities might cause mild digestive upset, it is not considered harmful, making it a wonderful choice for pet-friendly homes.

With its heart-shaped perfection and easy-care nature, the 'Albomarginata' offers both romantic charm and horticultural satisfaction. Add this beloved sweetheart to your collection and let its variegated hearts bring joy to your space!