If you’re looking for a new addition to your indoor sanctuary, give Hoya Elmeri a shout.
Hoya hermeri is a climbing plant with pale green leaves that turn red when exposed to sunlight. It grows clusters of deep purple star-shaped flowers with an incredible fragrance. This has a very compact lifespan and grows straight, so it’s fine to have in your office.
Does that mean you already like it? In this article, we will cut the leaves and provide practical insights on caring for this green gem, so keep reading.
Hoya Ermeli Profile
Hoya erumeli, like many other flowers in the Hoya group, originates from the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia and brings tropical charm to your indoor haven. It is named after Adolph Daniel Edward Elmer (1870-1942), an American botanist and plant collector who was active in the Philippines.
In its native habitat, this hardy plant thrives under a towering canopy. Therefore, they prefer filtered light. However, other fields do not require much effort. Hoyas will thrive if you let the soil dry between waterings and maintain consistent humidity.
It is ideal for those who are looking for a flowering plant that is not small and does not take up all the available space. The stem is smooth and has few branches that grow up to 4.8 inches (12 centimeters) long. The sharp, succulent leaves that grow from the stems are up to 6 inches (15 centimeters) long and up to 2.6 inches (6.5 centimeters) wide.
And with proper care, you can see hoya blooming anywhere from spring to summer. When this happens, clusters of small, star-shaped purple flowers with transparent backs bloom, creating a beautiful contrast.
How to care for Hoya Erumeli
light requirements
Hoya erumeli grows well indoors in bright indirect light. Although they can tolerate low light levels temporarily, they may become weaker and more susceptible to disease, have fewer leaves, and may not bloom without sufficient light.
You need to find a location where your Hoya receives at least four hours of light each day.
soil
Hoyas prefer near-natural or slightly acidic soils and do best in them. If this is checked, H. Elmeri will be fine in almost any well-aerated, well-drained soil. Be careful not to soak the soil with too much water, as this may cause root rot.
A peat base mixed with orchid bark and vermiculite or perlite will ensure this. If you have any leftover cactus mix, don’t be afraid to use it.
temperature
As a tropical plant, it grows best in warm, moist, humid environments. In the spring and summer, you can also move it outdoors and store it there if the temperature is above 60°F (15°C).
Do not expose to drafts or sudden extreme temperatures.
watering
Water regularly and allow the soil to dry between waterings. In the warm season, the soil should be thoroughly soaked until the water drains through the drainage holes.
During autumn and winter, H. erumeli enters dormancy and does not require as much water. Check how quickly the soil dries and change your watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization
Sea squirts have no particular requirements when it comes to nutrients. It is okay to apply half of the amount of potassium fertilizer during the growing season, but be careful not to overdo it.
Reduce fertilization during fall and winter, as plants enter a dormant period and growth and other processes naturally slow down.
propagation and replanting
Hoya erumeli is a succulent plant that grows especially well from cuttings. Take healthy cuttings with at least one leaf and root them in well-drained soil. The best time for breeding is spring or summer during the growing season.
Leaf cuttings can be a little problematic, but given the right environment they should be successful.
When it comes to repotting, many plants in the HOYA group are known for their slow growth, and HOYA Erumeli is no different. It develops a very shallow root system and does not require deep containers or frequent repotting.
Once it outgrows its container, consider repotting it every two to three years at the beginning of the growing season.
