Hoya carnosa ‘Grey Ghost’ Ø10.5cm H15cm

Description

Hoya carnosa ‘Grey Ghost’ is a unique and striking variety of the classic Hoya carnosa, known for its distinctive grey-green foliage. The plant features thick, waxy leaves with a subtle greyish hue, giving it a ghostly, ethereal appearance. This rare cultivar is a favorite among collectors for its beauty and ease of care, making it an excellent choice for indoor plant enthusiasts looking to add a touch of elegance and mystery to their space.

• Full Botanical Name: Hoya carnosa ‘Grey Ghost’
• Common Names: Grey Ghost Hoya
• Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Southeast Asia
• Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows as an epiphyte in tropical forests, thriving in bright, indirect light and humid conditions
• Care Guide:
• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some low light, but it will perform best in bright, filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and cause them to lose their distinctive gray color.
• Ideal Room: Ideal for bright windowsills, hanging baskets, or on shelves where it can receive plenty of indirect light. It also does well in bathrooms or kitchens with higher humidity.
• Feeding: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Reduce fertilizing during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity, making it well-suited for bathrooms, kitchens, or other humid spaces. Regular misting or using a humidity tray can help maintain the ideal conditions.
• Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Keep away from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to frost and cold weather.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Like most Hoyas, it is prone to root rot if overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and reduce watering in the winter months when the plant is dormant.
• Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe addition to homes with animals or young children.
• Soil Type: Use a well-draining, succulent or cactus mix. A mix designed for tropical plants or Hoyas is ideal for providing the right balance of moisture retention and drainage.
• Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem with at least one node, let it callous over for a few days, then plant it in well-draining soil or water until roots develop. New growth will appear within a few weeks.
• Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 10-12 feet (3-4 meters) in length. It is an excellent plant for hanging baskets or as a trailing vine in larger containers.
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate-growing. It will produce new leaves and vines over time, gradually becoming fuller and more lush with proper care.
• Pests and Treatment: May occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent damage and keep the plant healthy.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot with good drainage and fresh soil to ensure healthy root development and prevent water retention around the roots.
• Pruning: Prune dead or yellowing leaves regularly to maintain the plant’s appearance. Pruning also helps encourage fuller growth, especially when it is allowed to trail down from containers or hanging baskets.
• Air Purification: Like many Hoya plants, ‘Grey Ghost’ is known for its air-purifying qualities, helping to remove harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air, improving the overall air quality in your home.
• Folklore: Hoya plants are often associated with love, affection, and friendship. In some cultures, Hoyas are believed to bring positive energy and good fortune, making them popular plants for feng shui, as well as a thoughtful gift for loved ones.