How to Grow and Take Care of a Hoya Obovata

Hoya Obovata is an extremely popular houseplant characterized by large, deep green oval leaves that usually have a “splash” pattern. Unlike Hoya Carnosa, Hoya Obovata is often harder to find but matures very quickly. Hoyas are semi-succulent epiphytic plants, which means they naturally suck moisture and nutrients from the air, and their thick, waxy leaves often hold water similar to other succulents. In addition to being relatively easy to take care of, the Hoya Obovata makes a splendid hanging plant with its long tendrils that easily climb moss poles and trellises. Since drought-tolerant, this tropical plant can last forever and mature into very big plants. The Hoya Obovata is often sought-after by collectors due to its unique appearance and fast-growing nature. Read on to learn more about how to grow and take care of your Hoya Obovata plant properly.

What is the Hoya Obovata?

If you love growing houseplants, you will want to grow the Hoya Obovata plant. This tropical plant was initially grown in Thailand, Indonesia, Fiji, and India. It is often classified as a semi-succulent epiphytic plant that grows along branches of host trees and tree trunks. The Hoya Obovata is mostly sought-after due to its drought-resistant nature and unique appearance. It can also naturally pull moisture and nutrients from the air, making it among the best household plant worldwide. When grown indoors, you can use a circular wire hoop around it or suspend it in a basket. Another perfect way to display this household plant is by placing it on the plant shelf.

Hoya Obovata Care

As mentioned earlier, the Hoya Obovata plant is relatively easy to care for houseplant, as it requires minimal maintenance. While they are mostly not grown for their flowers, they produce beautiful flowers with a pleasant fragrance. The most important care for your Hoya plant is proper fertilization. This is because they are naturally fast-growing foliage cultivars that greatly benefit from regular fertilization, especially during summer and spring. According to Thespruce, below are some of the factors that need to be considered when growing your Hoya Obovata plant:

1. Bright Light

The Hoya Obovata plant requires bright light to grow successfully. They usually grow up among trees where they can receive bright light in their natural habitat. When grown outdoors, prevent exposure to direct rays of the sun and when cultivated indoors, place it at a south-facing window or any very bright location. Experts also recommend placing the plant in half-day direct sun at a west or east window location.

2. Well-drained Soil

Hoya Obovata plant thrives well in aerated, well-drained soils. This is because their roots require good drainage and air circulation. Their soil composition should include perlite, orchid bark, and peat to provide adequate room for the plants’ roots. You can also use a mix of pumice, orchid bark, compost, and potting soil.

3. Moderate Temperature and Humidity

Since they are semi-succulent epiphytic plants, Hoya Obovatas grow well in areas with regular misting or high humidity levels. The humidity level should be kept at about 60 percent and in temperatures ranging between 15° C to 29° C. However, during winter, you will need to change the temperature and humidity levels. Avoid placing your Hoya plant too close to heat vents, drafty windows, and fans to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures. Alternatively, you can decide to cluster other household plants with the Hoya Obovata or use a humidifier.

4. Water

The Hoya Obovata plant does not grow well with frequent watering and thus should be allowed to dry out between watering intervals thoroughly. The rate of watering is highly dependent on various factors such as the type of pot (ceramic, terracotta, plastic), planting season, amount of light it receives, and the potting mixture. It is often advisable to cut down on the amount of water while the plant is dormant, usually in the winter and fall months.

5. Regular Fertilization

Hoya Obovatas are fast-growing tropical plants that usually require regular fertilization during the summer and spring to ensure healthy growth. Once your Hoya plant is about to flower, use a high phosphorus fertilizer to encourage vigorous flowering. Your Hoya Obovata plant should be fertilized at least twice a month during the summer and spring seasons.

Propagating Hoya Obovata

It is very easy to propagate the Hoya Obovata plant. Through propagation, you can get gorgeous bright red and white flowers. According to Ohiotropics, propagation of the Hoya Obovata can be done through the cutting and the water method:

Propagation Through Cutting

Take a container or a pot and fill it with a well-drained potting mix. Drain the potting mix and place it aside to drain. Leave the soil to become moist. Select a healthy stem with two to three leaves on it and cut it to about 4-5 inches long. After, add a powdered or liquid-based rooting fertilizer to the stem in the pot. It is advisable to regularly water the potting soil, but do not overwater it. Place the pot or container with a cutting in an area where it will receive indirect bright sunlight. This area should also be humid, to allow roots and shoots to fully mature, which can take several weeks.

Propagation Through Watering

In this propagation method, you will need to place your Hoya plant cutting in water. Then, you will be required to change the water once weekly and ensure the water remains clean.

Potting and Repotting The Hoya Obovata Plant

According to Plantophiles, the Hoya Obovata plant does not usually require regular repotting as it is done every two to three times a year. Although they can thrive well in a wide variety of pots, these pots must have a drainage hole at the bottom to prevent root rot and waterlogged soil. The most preferred potting choice for the Hoya plant is a terracotta one. Terracotta pots are the most popular choice because it has enough weight to help offset the weight of the plant as it grows.

Final Words

The Hoya Obovata plant is susceptible to a wide array of common plant and pest diseases, including sooty mold. Generally, this tropical plant requires little care and maintenance. However, for this plant to grow healthy, the factors mentioned above need to be considered and followed through as recommended.