Hoya carnosa ‘Suzie Q’

Everyday care for Hoya carnosa ‘Suzie Q’

Guide ‘Suzie Q’ onto a trellis or hoop, or leave its stems hanging. Give bright indirect light with shelter from hot sun. About 18–27°C and 40–60% relative humidity are suitable, with gentle airflow; keep it above about 13°C.

The roots need chunky, freely draining mix. Wait until the pot feels light and the mix is nearly dry throughout, then water the entire root ball and drain. Use a skewer to check moisture deeper in the mix where needed. If growth slows, keep checking the mix before watering; it will take longer to become nearly dry.

Feed lightly with balanced orchid fertiliser about every two weeks during new growth, following the label. Pause when growth stops and flush with plain water every few months. Repot one size larger for crowded roots. Replace degraded mix in a pot that fits the roots and check for fertiliser already in new compost before adding more.

Wear gloves because the sap can irritate skin. With a clean blade, take a one- or two-node cutting. Root the lower, leafless node in lightly moist propagation mix, keeping the remaining leaves above the mix. Give warmth, indirect light and humid air; any cover should remain loose, ventilated and off the leaves. Pot into airy mix after rooting.

How to solve common problems with Hoya carnosa ‘Suzie Q’

• Long leaves soften or shrivel in a dry pot: Check whether the mix around the roots is dry. If the root ball is dry, water thoroughly and drain. If the leaves still wilt after watering, inspect the roots. Avoid repeated watering while the roots are still wet.
• New bleached or crisp patches facing the light: Cream borders and a pink flush on young leaves are normal traits. Hot sun or a sudden increase in light can scorch leaves. Move the plant into bright, filtered light. If you later move it to a brighter position, introduce the stronger light gradually. Existing dry patches will not recover; retain healthy foliage.
• White cottony insects at nodes and leaf joints: Confirm mealybugs beneath the wax and isolate the plant. Remove visible insects with a damp swab or tweezers. Inspect sheltered leaf joints, stems, the pot and any support weekly, removing any mealybugs you find until none remain. If mealybugs persist, use a product approved for home use against mealybugs on indoor ornamental plants in your country. Follow the label for how much to use, where to apply it, when to repeat treatment and all safety precautions.

Hoya carnosa ‘Suzie Q’ is non-toxic to cats and dogs

• Keep it out of reach if your pet regularly chews houseplants.
• If unexpected symptoms develop after ingestion, contact a veterinarian.

Name meaning of Hoya carnosa

Hoya honours the English gardener Thomas Hoy. The Latin epithet carnosa means fleshy.