Underwatering
Dry soil with yellowing, wrinkling lower leaves means it finally ran out of stored water.
Diagnosis
Underwatering
What's happening
Hoya kerrii tolerates drought well thanks to its plump leaves, but if the soil stays bone dry for weeks the plant starts draining its oldest leaves to survive. Those leaves yellow, soften, and wrinkle while the soil shrinks away from the side of the pot and refuses to absorb water.
How to fix it
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. If the mix has gone hydrophobic and water runs straight through without soaking in, bottom-water instead: set the pot in a few inches of water for 20–30 minutes, then let it drain fully. Resume a steady rhythm of watering once the soil is dry an inch or two down — just don't swing to the opposite extreme, since this plant resents staying wet.
What fixes it
- A long-spout watering can — A long-spout can lets you water deeply and evenly down at the soil instead of splashing the waxy leaves.
If that doesn't fix it
This is general guidance based on common symptoms; individual plants vary.
Read the full Sweetheart Hoya care guide →
Reviewed June 2026 · how we check this