Common Name: Fung Wax Flower, Tiny-Leaf Porcelain Vine
Scientific Name: Hoya curtisii
Family: Apocynaceae
Hoya curtisii is a small, trailing epiphytic plant known for its tiny, heart-shaped leaves that are olive green with silver or grey speckling. The leaves are thick and succulent-like, growing densely along thin, trailing stems that can cascade gracefully over the edges of a pot or hanging basket. This plant is a slow grower but can eventually form a dense, cascading mat of foliage, making it ideal for hanging displays or as a ground cover in terrariums.
 
Hoya curtisii is a charming, low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of elegance with its delicate, speckled leaves and trailing habit. It's an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts looking to add a unique, compact plant to their collection.
 
Flowering:
Hoya curtisii produces small clusters of star-shaped, pale yellow or greenish flowers with a red center. The flowers have a subtle, sweet fragrance and typically bloom during the warmer months. However, this species is more prized for its foliage than its flowers.
Care Information:
Light:
Prefers bright, indirect light. It thrives in filtered sunlight or a well-lit room but can tolerate lower light conditions, though growth may slow down.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Watering:
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Hoya curtisii is somewhat drought-tolerant and prefers being on the dry side rather than waterlogged.
Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant's growth naturally slows down.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has good drainage.
Humidity:
Prefers moderate to high humidity levels but can adapt to average household humidity.
Misting the plant occasionally or placing it near a humidifier can help maintain humidity, especially in dry environments.
Temperature:
Ideal temperature range is between 60-80°F (16-27°C).
Protect from cold drafts and avoid exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil:
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix. A mix designed for orchids or succulents with added perlite or orchid bark works well.
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.
Pruning:
Prune lightly to maintain the desired shape and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
The plant can be trimmed to encourage denser growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Repotting:
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a shallow pot with good drainage, as Hoya curtisii prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Propagation:
Hoya curtisii can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings with at least 2-3 nodes, allow them to callus for a day, and then plant in a well-draining mix.
Rooting can take a few weeks, and maintaining high humidity around the cuttings can improve success rates.
Toxicity:
Hoya curtisii is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for homes with animals and children.
Hoya curtisii is a charming, low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of elegance with its delicate, speckled leaves and trailing habit. It's an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts looking to add a unique, compact plant to their collection.