Common Name: Hindu Rope Plant, Krinkle Kurl
Scientific Name: Hoya carnosa 'Compacta'
Family: Apocynaceae
Hoya compacta, commonly known as the Hindu Rope Plant, is a unique cultivar of Hoya carnosa. This plant is characterized by its thick, twisted, and curled leaves that grow along long, trailing vines. The leaves are dark green, and some varieties have variegation with creamy white or yellow edges. The vines can grow quite long, making it a stunning plant for hanging baskets or trailing down shelves. The plant’s dense, rope-like appearance makes it a favorite among Hoya enthusiasts.
Flowering:
Hoya compacta produces clusters of star-shaped flowers, usually pink or white with a darker center. The flowers are fragrant and waxy, typically blooming in the warmer months. The blooms are long-lasting and often appear on the same spurs year after year.
Care Information:
Light:
Prefers bright, indirect light. It thrives in well-lit spaces but can tolerate lower light levels, though this may reduce flowering.
Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day, as it can scorch the leaves.
Watering:
Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Hoya compacta is somewhat drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings.
During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant’s growth slows.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s crucial to ensure the pot has good drainage.
Humidity:
Prefers moderate to high humidity but can adapt to average household humidity.
Misting occasionally or using a humidity tray can help maintain moisture levels, especially in drier environments.
Temperature:
Ideal temperature range is between 60-80°F (16-27°C).
Keep away from cold drafts and avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil:
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix. A mix designed for orchids or succulents with added perlite, pumice, or orchid bark is ideal.
The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Fertilization:
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.
Pruning:
Prune to remove dead or yellowing leaves and to maintain the desired shape.
Avoid cutting the flowering spurs (short stems from which the flowers emerge), as this is where new flowers will form in subsequent blooming cycles.
Repotting:
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, as Hoya compacta prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Use a shallow pot with good drainage.
Propagation:
Hoya compacta can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting with 2-3 nodes, allow it to callus for a day, and then plant in a well-draining mix.
Rooting may take several weeks, and maintaining high humidity and warm temperatures can increase the success rate.
Toxicity:
Hoya compacta is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for homes with animals and children.
With its striking, curled foliage and relatively low-maintenance care requirements, Hoya compacta is a favorite among indoor plant enthusiasts. It’s perfect for hanging baskets, and its unique appearance adds an exotic touch to any indoor garden.