At a glance
- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 11 to 17 days (summer)
Every 22 to 34 days, sometimes less (winter) - Climate
- 18–27 °C
- Humidity
- 40–70 %
- Pet safety
- Pet-safe (non-toxic)
- Scientific name
- Hoya kerrii
When and how much water
Water sweetheart plant when the top 5 cm 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. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Light and placement
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 sweetheart plant every 45 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
Sweetheart plant is comfortable between 18 and 27 °C. Below 10 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 40–70% 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.
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 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.
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 are my Sweetheart plant’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a sweetheart plant, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or black soft base. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see wrinkled heart leaves, soft puckered leaves, or limp foliage instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
Sources
- This guide follows established plant-care guidance and official ASPCA pet-safety references. How we verify our plant data →
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
