10 - 15cm Hoya Black Dragon House Plant 10,5 cm Pot

Hoya ‘Black Dragon’ is a rare and highly sought-after cultivar of the Hoya genus, admired for its unusually dark, glossy foliage and slow-growing, compact nature. It's part of the Apocynaceae family, like other Hoyas, and is often grown for its ornamental leaves rather than its flowers—although, under the right conditions, it can bloom with delicate, fragrant star-shaped flowers.

🌿 Description of Hoya ‘Black Dragon’

• Leaves: The standout feature of the Black Dragon is its incredibly dark green, nearly black leaves. These are thick, succulent, and ovate to elliptical in shape, with a glossy surface. Depending on lighting, the foliage can appear almost jet black.

• Growth Habit: It's a relatively slow grower and tends to stay compact. Like many Hoyas, it’s a vining plant but doesn’t sprawl aggressively.

• Flowers: Rare in cultivation but possible in high humidity and bright light. The blooms are typically star-shaped and creamy with pink centres, giving off a sweet fragrance.

• Size: Can grow to about 30–60 cm in height indoors, depending on support and conditions.

🧾 Care Guide for Hoya ‘Black Dragon’

☀️ Light

• Bright, indirect light is best. Too much direct sun may scorch the leaves, while too little light will reduce its already slow growth.

• Can tolerate some morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.

• Under grow lights, it does very well if natural light is limited.

💧 Watering

• Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings.

• During the active growing season (spring to early autumn), water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry.

• In winter, reduce watering frequency significantly.

• Always use pots with drainage holes to avoid root rot.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers warmth — ideally between 18–27°C. Protect from drafts and cold temps below 12°C.

• Humidity: Thrives in higher humidity (50%–70%). While it can adapt to average home humidity, misting or a pebble tray can help.

• It benefits greatly from being placed near a humidifier or in a terrarium setup.

🌱 Soil

• Use a well-draining, airy mix. A good blend might include:

  • Orchid bark

  • Perlite or pumice

  • Coconut coir or peat

  • A small amount of potting soil

• Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils.

🧴 Fertiliser

• Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser (half-strength).

• High-phosphorus fertilisers can help promote flowering, if desired.

• Do not fertilise in winter when the plant is dormant.

🪴 Potting & Repotting

• Hoyas like to be slightly root-bound, so only repot every 2–3 years or when roots start to outgrow the pot.

• Spring is the best time to repot.

✂️ Pruning & Training

• Minimal pruning needed, mostly to remove dead leaves or control shape.

• Use a small trellis or moss pole to guide its vines if desired.

🐛 Common Pests & Problems

• Pests: Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and scale.

• Overwatering: This is the most common issue—leads to yellowing leaves and root rot.

• Lack of light: Can lead to stunted growth or leaf drop.

• Leaf spots: May occur from excessive moisture or fungal issues—ensure good air circulation.

🌸 Encouraging Blooms

• Provide stable warmth, bright indirect light, and high humidity.

• Keep the plant slightly root-bound and avoid cutting old stems, as Hoyas often flower on older growth.

🪴 Final Tips

• Be patient! Hoya ‘Black Dragon’ is slow-growing but well worth the wait.

• Avoid leaf shine products—they can damage the glossy foliage.

• This plant makes a stunning statement piece due to its unique dark foliage.