Sweetheart plant care guide
Hoya kerrii
Quick answer
Water your sweetheart plant when the top 5 cm (2 in) of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 11 to 17 days.
- WateringEvery 11 to 17 days · summer
Every 22 to 34 days, sometimes less often · winter - LightBright light, some sun
- Climate18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
- Pet safetyPet-safe (non-toxic)
Not sure it’s this plant?Get the free Botanicaly app and find out with a photoWhen and how to water
5 cm (2 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 11 to 17 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 22 to 34 days, sometimes less often
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Work out your own rhythm with the watering calculator.
Light and placement
Bright light, some sun
Sweetheart plant needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed your sweetheart plant every 14 days while it’s actively growing. Use a cactus and succulent fertilizer, which is lower in nitrogen, at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
Humidity50–70%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–27 °C (64–81 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 10 °C (50 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 50–70% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
No. Pet-safe.
Sweetheart plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Common questions
How often should I water a sweetheart plant?
Water your sweetheart plant (Hoya kerrii) when the top 5 cm (2 in) of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 11 to 17 days. In winter, slow down to every 22 to 34 days, sometimes less often.
How much light does a sweetheart plant need?
Sweetheart plant needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Is sweetheart plant safe for cats and dogs?
Sweetheart plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Why is my sweetheart plant turning yellow or drooping?
Yellowing, drooping and brown tips can have several causes. Check the potting mix before adding water and follow this plant’s watering and rest instructions. If the mix is still wet, do not add more water. Check drainage and roots, then light, humidity, water quality and pests. Faded color or webbing alone does not show that the roots need water.
Sources
- This guide follows established plant-care guidance and official ASPCA pet-safety references. How we verify our plant data →
- How we check our plant advice
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