Hoya carnosa 'Grey Ghost' Ø6cm

Hoya carnosa 'Grey Ghost' - A rare, collector-grade Hoya carnosa cultivar with extraordinary silver-grey foliage that appears almost entirely covered in shimmering metallic speckles. Thick, waxy, oval leaves with a matte ethereal sheen. Slow-growing but deeply rewarding vining epiphyte. Produces fragrant baby pink star-shaped flower clusters when mature. Easy care, drought-tolerant. Pet-safe! Growth and development Hoya carnosa 'Grey Ghost' has the twining, climbing growth habit typical of the carnosa species. The stems extend continuously, seeking supports to anchor onto. Growth rate is moderate to slow, due to the reduced chlorophyll level in the silver leaves - photosynthesis is less efficient than in the classic green form. Nevertheless, the plant is robust and long-lived - specimens of Hoya carnosa have lived over 30 years in cultivation. Compared to other Hoya carnosa cultivars, 'Grey Ghost' requires slightly more light to compensate for less efficient photosynthesis. It is ideal on a hoop, trellis, or in a hanging basket where the stems can cascade. Care requirements: Light: Bright, indirect light. East or west-facing window. Requires more light than green Hoya carnosa to compensate for the silver foliage. 2-3 hours of direct morning sun are beneficial. Temperature: Optimal 18-27°C. Tolerates minimum 7°C for short periods. A winter cooling period (12-15°C) stimulates flowering. Watering: Allow the substrate to dry almost completely between waterings. Hoya carnosa tolerates drought better than overwatering. Water sparingly in winter. Humidity: 40-60%. Tolerates normal household humidity, but higher levels favour growth. Substrate: Well-draining mix: pine bark, perlite, sphagnum moss and universal potting mix in roughly equal proportions. Fertilisation: Balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength, every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Propagation: By stem cuttings with 2-3 nodes or by layering. Optimal rooting temperature: 22-25°C. Specifications Pot diameter: 6 cm Total height (incl. pot): 15 cm Flowering stage: No flowers