Hoyas, also known as “Wax Plants,” are tropical vines native to Southeast Asia and Australia. These plants are part of the Apocynaceae family and are known for their thick, waxy leaves and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers. Hoyas come in many varieties, each with unique leaf shapes and growth habits—some are climbers, while others hang or grow as compact shrubs. They’re loved for their ability to thrive in bright, indirect light and tolerate a range of indoor conditions.
Popular Hoya Varieties:-
- Hoya Carnosa (the classic wax plant)
- Hoya Australis (fast-growing with sweet-scented flowers)
- Hoya Kerrii (known for its heart-shaped leaves)
Care
- Water: Hoya plants like to stay on the dry side. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry, and be careful not to let them sit in water, as this can cause root rot.
- Light: Hoyas love bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill is perfect, but keep them out of direct afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves.
- Soil: They do best in a light, well-draining mix, like a blend of orchid bark, perlite, and a bit of potting soil. This helps prevent the roots from getting too soggy.
- Temperature and Humidity: Hoyas prefer warmer temperatures between 68 and 75°F (20-24°C) and like a bit of humidity. If the air is dry, a little misting or a nearby humidifier can keep them happy.
Planting & Growing
The most common method is using stem cuttings: find a healthy stem with a few nodes, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, and place it in water or well-draining soil. Make sure a node is under the surface for rooting, and keep it warm and humid with indirect light. Roots should appear in a few weeks to months.
You can also try leaf cuttings, though it’s trickier, or try air layering by wrapping a cut stem with moist moss until roots develop. Once roots form, you can plant it in soil and watch it grow!
Pruning
Hoyas grow slowly, so be patient with them. After they finish blooming, don’t cut off the old flower stalks – they might bloom again from the same spot. If you remove the stalks, the plant has to grow new ones, which takes time and energy away from making new flowers.
Common Pests
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you care for a hoya plant indoors?
Hoyas like bright, indirect light, but a bit of direct sunlight won’t hurt them. Water when the soil feels dry, especially if the leaves start to wrinkle, and reduce watering during winter to avoid rot.
Do Hoyas like to climb or hang?
Hoyas love to climb with some support, but they can also grow beautifully in hanging baskets. Some types grow more like little shrubs or succulents too.
How to get hoyas to bloom?
To get Hoyas to bloom, make sure they get plenty of bright, indirect light. They can handle low light, but they’ll flower more with a bit more sunshine.
Do you water Hoya from top or bottom?
It’s best to water hoyas from the top, especially if the soil looks dry or you need to rinse out any salt build-up. Pour water until it drains out the bottom but don’t let the pot sit in leftover water.
