Hoya kerrii (Single Leaf)

Hoya kerrii, commonly known as the Sweetheart Plant or Heart-Leaf Hoya, is instantly recognisable for its thick, waxy, perfectly heart-shaped foliage. This charming little plant is supplied as a single rooted heart leaf, making it a wonderfully unusual choice for a desk, shelf or small gift.

Supplied in a compact 6cm diameter nursery pot at approximately 10cm tall, this miniature Hoya is grown primarily for the sculptural shape of its single leaf. Its tiny size and extremely slow-growing nature make it particularly easy to accommodate, even where space is limited.

Will a Single Hoya kerrii Leaf Grow Into a Vine?

This is an important distinction with single-leaf Hoya kerrii plants. The species itself naturally grows as a climbing or trailing vine, eventually producing stems covered with heart-shaped leaves.

However, a single rooted leaf will only be able to produce new shoots if the cutting includes a viable stem node or growing point. Many decorative single-leaf plants do not contain one, so they can remain as a healthy rooted heart-shaped leaf for a very long time without ever developing into a trailing plant.

For that reason, this plant is best purchased and enjoyed as a decorative single-leaf Hoya rather than with the expectation that it will eventually become a large vine.

Light & Position

Hoya kerrii prefers bright, indirect light. A position close to an east- or west-facing window is ideal, although it can also tolerate some gentle direct morning or evening sunshine.

Avoid prolonged strong midday sun through glass, which can scorch the fleshy leaf. It will tolerate slightly lower light, although brighter conditions generally help keep the plant healthy.

Watering

The thick, fleshy leaf stores moisture, so Hoya kerrii should be allowed to dry substantially between waterings. Check that the compost has dried before watering again rather than following a fixed schedule.

Water thoroughly but sparingly, allowing excess water to drain away completely. Never leave the nursery pot sitting in water, as overwatering is one of the easiest ways to damage the roots.

Water even less frequently during autumn and winter when growth and water use slow significantly.

Humidity & Temperature

Hoya are tropical plants and appreciate warmth, although normal household humidity is generally suitable for a single-leaf Hoya kerrii.

Keep the plant comfortably warm, ideally around 16–24°C, and protect it from cold draughts or prolonged exposure to low temperatures.

Feeding

This tiny, slow-growing plant needs very little fertiliser. Feed lightly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser at a reduced strength.

Avoid heavy or frequent feeding, particularly if the plant is remaining as a single leaf rather than producing active new growth.

Repotting

Hoya kerrii is happiest when relatively snug in its pot and does not need frequent repotting. Only move it into a larger container once the existing pot has become genuinely root-filled.

Use a very free-draining houseplant compost, ideally with additional bark, perlite or another material that keeps plenty of air around the roots.

Why You'll Love It

• Distinctive natural heart-shaped leaf
• Perfect miniature plant for desks and shelves
• Popular as a thoughtful plant gift
• Very slow-growing and space-efficient
• Thick, waxy and sculptural foliage
• Needs relatively infrequent watering
• An unusual member of the Hoya family

Pet & Child Safety

Hoya are generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs. As with any houseplant, however, it is still best to discourage pets and young children from chewing or eating the foliage.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Hoya kerrii
Common Name: Sweetheart Plant / Heart-Leaf Hoya / Wax Heart
Family: Apocynaceae
Nursery Pot Size: 6cm diameter
Approximate Height: Around 10cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 8cm+
Plant Form: Single rooted heart leaf
Foliage: Thick / waxy / green / heart-shaped
Growth Rate: Very slow
Position: Bright, indirect light

Please note: This product is supplied as a single rooted Hoya kerrii leaf. Single-leaf plants may remain as one leaf indefinitely and are not guaranteed to develop additional stems, leaves or vines. As this is a living plant, the exact leaf size, shape, height and appearance will naturally vary. Decorative pots shown in photos are not included. This plant is supplied in a plastic nursery pot.