Name: Hoya Mathilde Fresh Cutting
SKU: 1149
Availability: InStock

Hoya 'Mathilde' is a popular and charming cultivar of Hoya that is prized for its lush, trailing growth and attractive foliage. This cultivar is a hybrid of Hoya carnosa and Hoya serpens and has some unique features. Here are the key characteristics and care tips for Hoya 'Mathilde':

Key Characteristics:

Foliage: Hoya 'Mathilde' is known for its glossy, waxy, elliptical leaves. The leaves are typically dark green and often have a slight reddish tint on the new growth. They are somewhat succulent and add to the overall appeal of the plant.
Flowers: Like other Hoya species and cultivars, Hoya 'Mathilde' produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. The flowers are typically pink to mauve and have a sweet and pleasant fragrance. The blossoms are often seen in clusters, enhancing the ornamental value of the plant.
Growth Habit: Hoya 'Mathilde' is a vining or trailing plant with a compact growth habit. It is well-suited for hanging baskets, trellises, or as a trailing plant in a pot.

Care Tips:

Light: Provide bright, indirect light for your Hoya 'Mathilde.' It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
Temperature: Maintain a warm and consistent temperature for this Hoya, ideally between 70-80°F (21-27°C). Protect it from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Watering: Water your Hoya 'Mathilde' when the top inch of the soil is dry. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as Hoyas are sensitive to overwatering. Be especially cautious with water during the dormant season.
Humidity: Hoyas appreciate higher humidity levels. You can increase humidity by misting the plant, using a humidity tray, or placing a humidifier nearby.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for succulents or cacti. A mix of perlite and peat moss can also work well.
Fertilization: Feed your Hoya 'Mathilde' with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or eliminate fertilization during the dormant period (fall and winter).
Pruning: Prune the plant as needed to control its size and shape. Trimming leggy vines can encourage bushier growth.
Repotting: Hoya plants typically do not need frequent repotting. Repot only when the plant has outgrown its container or its roots have become too crowded.
Pest Management: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly.

Hoya 'Mathilde' is a delightful and relatively low-maintenance houseplant that can add beauty and charm to your indoor space. With the right care, it can thrive and become a cherished addition to your plant collection.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR FRESH CUTTING:

Rooting fresh cuttings of Hoya 'Mathilde' is a wonderful way to propagate this beautiful plant and expand your collection. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to root Hoya 'Mathilde' cuttings:

Materials Needed:

Fresh Hoya 'Mathilde' cutting
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
A small pot or container
Well-draining potting mix (succluent or cactus mix works well)
A plastic bag or a clear plastic dome
A spray bottle with water

Steps:

Prepare the Cutting:
- Use clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors to take a healthy cutting from the Hoya 'Mathilde.' The cutting should be around 4-6 inches long and include at least one leaf node (the point from which roots will develop).
Let the Cutting Callus:
- Place the freshly cut end of the cutting in a dry, well-ventilated area for a day or two to allow it to callus. This helps prevent rotting when you plant it.
Plant the Cutting:
- Fill a small pot or container with well-draining potting mix. Create a small hole in the soil with your finger or a stick.
Insert the Cutting:
- Gently insert the callused end of the Hoya 'Mathilde' cutting into the hole you created in the soil, ensuring that at least one leaf node is below the soil line.
Water the Cutting:
- Water the cutting lightly to settle the soil around it. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. You can use a spray bottle to mist the soil surface.
Create a Humid Environment:
- Place the pot and cutting inside a clear plastic bag or under a clear plastic dome. This creates a humid environment that encourages root development. Leave the bag or dome slightly open for some air circulation.
Provide Indirect Light:
- Place the pot in an area with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can be too harsh for the fresh cutting. A north-facing window or a spot with filtered light is ideal.
Maintain Humidity:
- Check the cutting periodically to ensure that the soil remains lightly moist and the humidity inside the bag or dome is maintained. Mist the cutting or the inside of the bag as needed.
Monitor Root Growth:
- Over several weeks to a few months, the cutting will develop roots. You can gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, which indicates that roots have formed.
Transplanting:
- Once the Hoya 'Mathilde' cutting has a healthy root system, you can transplant it into a larger pot with well-draining soil suitable for Hoyas. Gradually acclimate it to normal room conditions.
Regular Care:
- Treat the rooted cutting as you would a mature Hoya 'Mathilde,' providing bright, indirect light, regular but careful watering, and periodic feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

With patience and proper care, your Hoya 'Mathilde' cutting will develop into a beautiful and healthy plant. Propagating Hoya cuttings can be a rewarding way to grow your collection of these unique and charming plants.