Hoya Cuttings

Hoya Cutting FAQ

Fresh cuttings are one of the most rewarding ways to grow Hoyas; they are resilient, fast-growing, affordable, and low-maintenance. This FAQ provides an overview of what you can expect when growing your cuttings. 

Quick Clarity (read this first)

  • Nodes are the growth point - that’s where roots will develop, and new vines come from 
  • We pack to protect the node; secure stems, shipped in a vial of water to maintain hydration, and plenty of polyfill to protect foliage
  • Shipping stress is normal (slight wrinkling or softening of foliage is completely normal)
  • If there’s an issue on arrival, contact us within 12 hours of delivery with photos

Our Cuttings

Are your cuttings rooted?

No, unless a listing clearly states otherwise, all cuttings are fresh, unrooted cuttings. 

How many nodes do I receive?

Most listings are 1-node fresh cuttings unless the product description states a different node count.

Nodes, Leaves, and Growth

What is a node?

A node is the part of the vine where roots and new growth can form. Nodes can look different across Hoyas, but commonly appear as:

  • the joint where leaves meet the stem
  • a small bump/ring on the vine
  • a woody “knuckle” on mature growth

Can a leaf grow into a full plant?

Sometimes a leaf can root, but a node is typically required for long-term vine growth. If you’re buying to grow a full plant, node-based cuttings are the move.

Why does my cutting have an upside-down leaf?

Due to some mother plants growing in hanging pots, nodes will sometimes appear above a new leaf, and will have to be propagated upside-down. No worries; this will not affect the overall growth pattern, and new growth will appear right side up. 

Shipping + Arrival Expectations

How are cuttings packed?

We pack to protect the node and foliage; all cuttings will have a stem that has been freshly cut, calloused, and placed in a water vial to maintain hydration throughout the stem and foliage while in transit. They will also travel in a smaller container, filled with polyfill to ensure the cuttings are stable and reduce the risk of breakage while traveling.

My cutting looks wrinkled or tired—should I worry?

Not right away. It's normal for fresh nodes to lose moisture after being cut, and travel can cause mild stress, which can cause foliage to look worse for wear. Give it 24–72 hours in stable conditions:

  • Bright light
  • Warm temps (70–80°F is ideal)
  • Maintained hydration in the preferred propagation medium

A leaf yellowed or fell off—did it fail?

Not necessarily. If the stem is firm and the node is intact, it can still root and grow. However, your chances of a successful propagation is substantially lower if all foliage has fallen off. If the stem arrives bare or leaves fall off within 48 hours after receiving the cutting, please reach out to us for guidance/ replacement.


Rooting Basics 

What rooting method do you recommend?

There are several reliable ways to root Hoyas:

  • Fluval Stratum
  • Perlite or Pumice + a touch of moss
  • Tree fern fiber
  • Water rooting (Effective, but may take the longest to successfully transition to a solid medium)

How long does rooting take?

Warmth, consistent moisture, and bright indirect light make a big difference while propagating unrooted cuttings.

Why isn’t my cutting doing anything yet?

Hoyas often “pause” while building roots. If it’s firm and not rotting, avoid touching or tugging at the stem. Constantly pulling it up to check can slow progress. 

Clear plastic cups or pots can help observe root growth and progression.

Should I remove leaves to help with rooting?

No! Leaves power root growth by providing the plant with energy. Only remove a leaf if it feels mushy and is visibly rotting.

What’s normal vs. what needs action

Normal (monitor, don’t panic)

  • mild wrinkling
  • cosmetic scuffs
  • one leaf yellowing
  • slow/no visible progress for a couple of weeks

Not normal (act fast)

  • mushy stem
  • spreading black tissue
  • foul smell

 If you observe any of the above issues, your first line of defense will be to isolate the affected tissue, trim it with a sterile blade or shears, allow it to callus, and re-root in a drier medium. Documenting your progress will help significantly when seeking guidance.

Pests & Quarantine

We grow with prevention and inspection in mind, but no seller can guarantee 100% pest-free plants. We recommend quarantining new arrivals for 2–3 weeks and inspecting under bright light. We also recommend treating your cutting with your preferred treatment method at least once before placing with the rest of your collection. 

Dade Plant Co. Arrival Support Policy (12-hour window)

If your cutting arrives with a clear issue, we are here to help!

Contact us within 12 hours of delivery and include:

  • Photos of the cutting as received (before major changes, if possible)
  • Close-ups of the node and cut end

Common Exclusions 

  • carrier delays once the package is in transit
  • heat/cold damage when weather protection was declined, or delivery was delayed
  • cosmetic stress that typically recovers (minor wrinkling/scuffs)
  • rooting outcomes after 72 hours (care environment varies by home, and we can not be responsible for how quickly a cutting roots)

Still need help?

Send us the following, and we will do everything in our power to help you:

  • A clear photo of your node + cut end
  • Your rooting medium/setup
  • The species name