Hoya
Thick waxy leaves on long vines, and clusters of star-shaped flowers that smell like honey at night. Pet-safe, drought-tolerant, and happiest when slightly neglected in a bright spot.
The hoya is the trailing plant for people who forget to water. Its leaves are thick and waxy, it stores water like a succulent, and it climbs or trails wherever you let it. Then one summer it surprises you with clusters of fragrant flowers.
Do not cut the flower spurs after blooming; they flower again from the same spot next year. There are hundreds of hoya species and the care is broadly the same.
Light
Bright indirect light, with some gentle direct sun welcome. An east window is ideal; a spot near a south window works. It tolerates medium light but will not flower there. Hot afternoon sun burns the leaves.
Water
Let the soil dry out, then water thoroughly. Every ten days in summer, every three weeks in winter. Squeeze a leaf: if it flexes, water. Overwatering is the main risk; the roots are fine and rot quickly in wet soil.
Soil and potting
A chunky, airy mix: potting soil with plenty of orchid bark and perlite. It flowers best root-bound, so repot only every three years or when it is clearly struggling.
Feeding
A half-strength balanced feed every six weeks in spring and summer. A bloom-booster in early summer can encourage flowers on a mature plant.
Propagation
Stem cuttings with two or three nodes root in water, sphagnum or soil within a few weeks in warm months. Leave a few leaves on the cutting.
In a hot, dry home
Very comfortable here. Dry air suits the thick leaves, and AC does not bother it. Keep it out of the direct line of a west window in summer; morning sun is welcome, afternoon sun through glass scorches.
Hoya varieties
Same care, different look. These are the named forms you will see for sale.
- Carnosa (green)
The plain species: dark green, lightly speckled leaves. Toughest and fastest of the carnosa forms.
- Krimson Queen
Green centre with cream-white margins, new leaves flushed pink. The most popular variegated hoya.
- Tricolor (Krimson Princess)
The reverse of Krimson Queen: cream and pink centre with green margins.
- Chelsea
Puckered, quilted leaves rounder than the species. Same care.
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The twisted-leaf form. Has its own profile.
Full profile -
A different species with silver-flecked leaves and chocolate-scented flowers. Has its own profile.
Full profile -
A different species with big round leaves. Has its own profile.
Full profile -
A different species, faster and rounder-leaved; Lisa is its variegated form. Has its own profile.
Full profile -
A different species with narrow keel-shaped leaves. Has its own profile.
Full profile -
A different species with heart-shaped leaves. Has its own profile.
Full profile - Curtisii
Tiny, silver-mottled leaves on a dense trailing plant. Same care; slower.
- Bella
Hoya lanceolata bella: small pointed leaves, bushy, and quick to flower in white and purple. Likes slightly more water.
- Lacunosa
Small, dark, dimpled leaves and tiny fuzzy white flowers that smell of cinnamon. Same care.
- Sunrise
Small, veined leaves that turn deep red in strong light. Same care.
- Shooting Star
Hoya multiflora: an upright, shrubby hoya with white and yellow flowers like tiny rockets. Wants more water than the vining types.
- Crassipetiolata
Thick, veined leaves and pale pink flowers. Same care.
Problems and fixes
Leaves yellowing and dropping
Likely cause: Overwatering
Fix: Let it dry out fully. Check drainage.
No flowers
Likely cause: Plant too young, not enough light, or recently repotted
Fix: Give it bright light, keep it root-bound, and be patient. Flowers come on mature vines.
Wrinkled leaves
Likely cause: Thirst
Fix: Water deeply. They plump up within days.
Sticky drops on leaves
Likely cause: Flower nectar, or aphids and mealybugs
Fix: Nectar is harmless. Check for insects and treat with insecticidal soap if found.
Hoya questions
Is hoya safe for cats and dogs?
Yes. Hoya is non-toxic to pets and people.
How do I get my hoya to flower?
Bright light, a snug pot, and age. Most hoyas flower after two or three years in good light. Never cut off the flower spurs; they rebloom.
How often should I water a hoya?
About every ten days in summer and every three weeks in winter, when the soil is dry and the leaves have a little give.
