Caring for Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated)

Table of Contents

• What Makes Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated) Unique?
• Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae Care and Cultivation Tips
• When Does Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae Bloom?
• What is the Growth Rate of Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated)?
• Debunking Misconceptions: Variegation Reversion
• Pro Tips for Variegation
• Is Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated) Pet Safe?
• Final Thoughts

Welcome back to Unsolicited Plant Talks! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated)—we'll discuss plant care requirements, propagation, and debunk some myths surrounding this beautiful houseplant.

Want to see my full unsolicited talk in the nursery? Check out my YouTube video here:

 

What Makes Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated) Unique?

Hoya species affinity burtoniae (variegated) is a rare Hoya species known for its unique yellow variegation. Unlike the common green Hoyas, this plant adds a pop of color to your indoor garden. It's also a versatile grower, thriving both as a trailing plant and on a trellis.

The leaves are not just aesthetically pleasing; they're also quite versatile. You can grow this plant on a trellis or let it trail down for a fuller look. Check out our plant care products here.

Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae Care and Cultivation Tips

Care for Hoya plants can vary greatly, but this plant's natural succulent qualities make it a houseplant that is very low maintenance. 

Propagation

Propagating this Hoya is a breeze. All you need to do is cut a small stem, leaving a node with leaves for photosynthesis. Stick them into a coco husk mix, keep moist, and you'll see rapid growth.

Regular pruning and propagation can help maintain the plant's shape and promote bushier growth. It is recommended to remove any yellow or dead leaves, as well as trim long, leggy stems. Pruning should be done in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.

Humidity, Temperature, and Light

While the plant doesn't require high humidity, it thrives in it. As for lighting, the more, the better. The leaves develop a stronger variegation, and can even sun stress into a beautiful pink, when exposed to bright light.  

Lastly, the plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It should be kept away from drafts or sudden temperature changes, as this can stress the plant.
 

Soil, Fertilization, and Watering

Just like other Hoyas, this plant doesn't like wet feet. A well-aerated mix is ideal, which is why we prefer using a mix of coco husk and coco coir. Overwatering or underwatering doesn't harm this resilient plant too much, but it's likely that consistent overwatering will lead to root rot, pests, or fungal infections, so watch for signs of stress. 

Fertilizing the plant every two to four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced houseplant fertilizer can help promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. During the dormant season (fall and winter), it is best to reduce or stop fertilizing.

When Does Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae Bloom?

The bloom period for Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (varigated) is generally in the spring and summer. The flowers are usually dark pink and come in a cluster.

To encourage blooming, make sure the plant is exposed to bright light and consider using a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

What is the Growth Rate of Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated)?

Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (varigated) is an easy grower, especially when given proper care. It can grow quite rapidly during the growing season, especially when exposed to bright light and fed with balanced fertilizer.

Debunking Misconceptions: Variegation Reversion

For many Hoyas and Aroids, variegation reversion is common - when ideal conditions are not met for a plant, it may lose the beautiful colored markings that make it so unique, opting for greener foliage that can soak up more light and feed it what it needs to survive. 

One common misconception about Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated) is that the existing variegated leaves will also fully "revert" and lose their variegation over time.

While it's true that the leaves may appear to revert to green, they are not completely reverted. The variegation becomes less vibrant but doesn't disappear entirely.

True reversion on this plant comes over time, through the growth of newer leaves that are grown in conditions without bright light. 

Pro Tips for Variegation

For this plant, the more light you give it, the more vibrant and colorful it will become! If you notice the variegation fading, cut the vine back to the last node that had variegated leaves and provide ample light. This will encourage new variegated leaves to grow.

Is Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated) Pet Safe?

Most Hoya species are generally considered pet safe, and this one is no exception. However, it's always a good idea to consult with poison control if you suspect your pet has ingested any plant material.

Final Thoughts

Image courtesy of @MIplantyvibes

Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae (variegated) is a straightforward plant to care for. All it asks for is a well-aerated mix, moderate watering, and lots of light. And remember, if you ever have concerns about reversion, it's easy to bring the variegation back.

If you have any questions about this variety, feel free to send us a message! Don't forget to subscribe to our emails for more plant tips and tricks. Happy planting!