Too much direct sun
Tender new leaves bleaching to a washed-out pale yellow on the window side usually means harsh direct sun.
Diagnosis
Too much direct sun
What's happening
Hoya kerrii wants bright light to grow and eventually bloom, but soft new growth scorches in strong, direct rays. Hit by midday sun through glass, the newest leaves bleach to a pale, faded yellow — sometimes with dry, sunburned patches — worst on the side nearest the window.
How to fix it
Move the plant back from the glass or filter the harsh light with a sheer curtain, keeping it in the bright, indirect light it prefers. Already-bleached leaves won't turn deep green again, but new growth will come in healthy once the light is gentler. If the bright window was your only light source, an east-facing spot or a grow light gives strong light without the scorch.
What fixes it
- A full-spectrum LED grow light — A full-spectrum grow light supplies the bright light this Hoya needs without the scorching of direct sun.
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