Hoya kerrii ‘Splash’

Hoya kerrii ‘Splash’ is a climbing Hoya known for its thick, heart-shaped green leaves marked with irregular silver flecks and splashes. Each leaf develops its own pattern of silvering while retaining the distinctive heart shape that makes Hoya kerrii easy to recognize. Mature plants develop long vining stems that can be trained onto a trellis or allowed to trail from a hanging basket. Established plants may also produce clusters of fragrant, waxy, star-shaped flowers.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Hoya kerrii ‘Splash’
• Common Name: Sweetheart Hoya, Valentine Hoya
• Pot Size: 5-inch hanging basket
• Growth Habit: Climbing and trailing vine
• Light: Bright indirect light
• Water: Moderate; keep lightly moist while allowing the upper portion of the mix to begin drying between waterings
• Care Level: Easy
• Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs

Care

Light: Provide bright indirect light for compact growth and healthy foliage. Gentle morning sun is beneficial, but protect the plant from prolonged harsh afternoon sun, especially indoors behind hot glass. RHS recommends bright indirect light with protection from hot sun.

Water: Water thoroughly when the upper portion of the potting mix begins to dry. Keep the root system lightly and consistently moist without leaving the plant waterlogged. Avoid allowing the entire root ball to stay completely dry for long periods.

Humidity: Moderate humidity is sufficient, although Hoya kerrii benefits from warmer, more humid conditions when actively growing.

Soil: Use an airy, fast-draining mix that provides both moisture retention and good root aeration. Orchid bark, perlite, coco chips, and a quality potting medium work well.

Temperature: Warm indoor temperatures around 65–80°F are ideal. Protect from cold drafts and prolonged cold conditions. North Carolina State Extension specifically recommends 65–80°F for Hoya kerrii. 

Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer during active growth. Reduce feeding when growth slows.

Growth & Habit

Hoya kerrii is naturally a slow-growing climbing vine. Mature stems can be trained around a trellis or allowed to trail from a hanging basket. The thick, heart-shaped leaves develop along long twining stems, and established plants can eventually produce several feet of growth under good indoor conditions. RHS and NC State both describe the species as climbing/trailing, with NC State specifically classifying its growth rate as slow. 

Mature plants may produce clusters of waxy, star-shaped flowers with contrasting darker centers. The flowers are fragrant, particularly at night. 

Pet Safety

Hoya kerrii is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to dogs and cats. Eating plant material can still cause digestive upset in individual animals, so chewing should be discouraged. 

After Delivery

Allow the plant time to acclimate after shipping and keep its light, temperature, and moisture conditions stable.

Do not repot a freshly shipped plant for at least two weeks after delivery. Repotting during the Blackwater Plants guarantee period voids live plant guarantee coverage.