Hoya Multiflora: The Freest Blooming Hoya for Your Indoor Plant Collection.
Photo by mariabostrom0 on Pixabay
Hoya Multiflora, also known as the Shooting Star Hoya, is a stunning and prolific bloomer that can add a touch of beauty to any indoor plant collection. With its stiff, upright growth habit and frequent blooming, this Hoya species from southeast China and tropical Asia is a must-have for plant enthusiasts.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the care requirements, propagation methods, and where to buy Hoya Multiflora. So, let’s dive in and discover how to cultivate this remarkable plant!
Hoya Multiflora Care Guide
1. Light: Finding the Perfect Spot
Hoya Multiflora thrives when placed in front of a window that receives bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate a window without direct sunlight, providing a few hours of direct sun either in the morning or late afternoon can enhance its growth and flowering.
If your location doesn’t offer adequate natural light, you can also grow Hoya Multiflora under grow lights. A northern-facing window supplemented with 12 hours of T5 grow lights has been proven successful for optimal blooming.
2. Watering: Striking a Balance
Proper watering is crucial for the health of Hoya Multiflora. It’s important to water the plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to escape through the drainage holes. However, avoid letting the plant sit in water for extended periods as it can lead to root rot.
Hoya Multiflora has sturdy leaves, but they are not as succulent as other Hoya species, so it’s best to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Aim to water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of the potting mix have dried out.
3. Soil: Creating a Well-Draining Mix
To provide the ideal growing conditions for Hoya Multiflora, it’s recommended to use a well-draining potting mix. A combination of 2 parts cactus/succulent mix and 1 part 1/4″ pumice creates a freely draining medium that promotes healthy growth.
By incorporating pumice into the mix, you improve the soil’s drainage and aeration, creating an environment where Hoya Multiflora can thrive. Consider using the high-quality 1/4″ pumice from Bonsai Jack as a soil amendment for your Hoyas.
4. Pot Size: Finding the Right Fit
Hoya Multiflora prefers to be slightly root-bound, so it’s essential to choose a pot that is not excessively large. Only repot the plant when it becomes truly root-bound, and even then, it can remain in the same-sized pot for several years.
If you find it challenging to keep up with watering due to an abundance of roots, you can upsize to the next pot size. However, it’s important not to use pots significantly larger than the previous one. For example, if the plant was in a 4-inch pot, a 6-inch pot would be suitable, but avoid going any larger.
5. Fertilizing: Nurturing Growth and Blooming
During the active growing season, it’s beneficial to fertilize Hoya Multiflora to support its growth and blooming. There are various fertilizers available, but a recommended option is Dyna-Gro Grow. Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of Dyna-Gro Grow per gallon of water and apply it during each watering.
This consistent use of a well-balanced fertilizer can make a noticeable difference in the overall health and appearance of your Hoya Multiflora.
6. Flowering: Celebrating Nature’s Beauty
Hoya Multiflora is known for its abundant and striking flowers. Unlike many other Hoyas that can take years to bloom, this species often blooms even as a small plant or cutting. To encourage optimal blooming, it’s essential not to remove the old flowering spurs as they will continue to produce blooms in the future.
Additionally, Hoya Multiflora can form new flowering spurs, ensuring a continuous display of its beautiful star-shaped flowers. However, it’s worth noting that the flowers produce sticky nectar, which may require occasional cleaning to maintain the plant’s cleanliness.
7. Temperature and Humidity: Creating the Perfect Environment
Hoya Multiflora prefers warmer temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C) for optimal growth. While it can tolerate average indoor humidity levels, providing higher humidity can benefit the plant.
Consider using a humidifier to increase the indoor air humidity, creating an environment closer to its natural habitat. If you need recommendations for humidifiers, check out our post on the best humidifiers for indoor plants.
Propagation: Expanding Your Collection
Hoya Multiflora is relatively easy to propagate through cuttings. Select a healthy stem tip with a couple of leaves at the end, and if necessary, remove the bottom leaf. Place the cutting in water, and within a few weeks, you should see roots starting to develop.
Once the roots reach a length of about 1/2 to 1 inch, you can transfer the cutting into a small pot filled with the same well-draining potting mix recommended for mature plants. With proper care, your propagated Hoya Multiflora will grow into a beautiful and blooming plant.
Where to Buy Hoya Multiflora
If you’re ready to add Hoya Multiflora to your plant collection, Etsy is an excellent one-stop shop for sourcing a wide variety of plants, including Hoya Multiflora. Check out the selection of Hoya Multiflora on Etsy to find the perfect plant to bring into your home.
Conclusion
Hoya Multiflora, the Shooting Star Hoya, is a remarkable addition to any indoor plant collection. Its frequent blooming, stunning flowers, and ease of care make it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. By providing the right amount of light, water, and nutrients, you can enjoy the beauty of Hoya Multiflora and witness its abundant blooms throughout the year. Whether you propagate from cuttings or purchase a mature plant, Hoya Multiflora is sure to bring joy and elegance into your living space. So why not add this freest blooming Hoya to your collection today?
Do you have any experience with Hoya Multiflora? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! And if you’re interested in other Hoyas to grow, check out our blog post on the best beginner Hoyas for your indoor garden.