Hoya carnosa 'Krinkle 8'

Hoya carnosa 'Krinkle 8', also known as hoya krinkle 8 or hoya ripple, is a captivating houseplant prized for its unique foliage. It's a cultivar resulting from a cross between Hoya carnosa and Hoya compacta. The name 'Krinkle 8' comes from the characteristic puckered or dimpled texture of its leaves, often featuring eight distinct indentations.

* Leaves: Thick, waxy, dark green leaves with a crinkled or dimpled surface, typically having 8 dimples. Some leaves might occasionally revert to a smoother, typical carnosa shape. Younger leaves can sometimes have a fuzzy texture.

 * Growth Habit: It's a vining epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on other plants (like trees) and can be grown hanging or trained to climb with a trellis. Stems can grow quite long.

 * Flowers: Produces clusters of star-shaped flowers, often pink with a red center. The flowers are known to be fragrant, sometimes described as smelling like chocolate. They bloom from perennial flower stalks (peduncles), so these should not be pruned.

Care:

 * Light: Prefers bright, indirect light to thrive and encourage flowering and richer foliage color. Avoid direct, scorching sun, which can burn the leaves. It can tolerate lower light conditions, but this may stunt growth and prevent blooming.

 * Water: Like other hoyas with succulent-like leaves, the Krinkle 8 is sensitive to overwatering. Allow the soil to nearly completely dry out between waterings, especially during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce watering significantly in the winter. Drooping or wilted leaves can indicate underwatering, while yellowing and leaf drop suggest overwatering.

 * Soil: Requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A semi-coarse, chunky mix is ideal.

 * Humidity: While it can tolerate average household humidity, increased humidity can promote better growth and larger leaves.

 * Fertilizing: During the spring and summer (growing season), fertilize monthly with a diluted general houseplant fertilizer.

 * Temperature: Average household temperatures are generally suitable. It is not frost-hardy.

 * Pruning: Generally requires minimal pruning, except to manage its size or shape. Remember not to prune the perennial flower stalks (peduncles).

 * Repotting: Repot when the plant becomes root-bound, using a well-draining potting mix.

The Hoya krinkle 8 is considered relatively easy to care for, making it a rewarding plant for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. Its unique textured leaves and potential for fragrant blooms add a special touch to any indoor plant collection.