Hoya plant care guide: Cultivating wax flowers at home

Plants are a wonderful means to add beauty and allure to any location. All these plants are different; some add aesthetic value to the surroundings while others are ornamental. And there are very few plants that have both; one of these is the Hoya plant.

Hoyas are perennial plants that regenerate year after year. They are native to warm climates in Asia, Australia and the Pacific Islands. They are often referred to as “wax plants” because they have thick, glossy leaves. With their sweet-smelling, star-shaped flowers and trailing vines, hoyas are ideal for windowsills and shelves.

Growcycle offers the best micronutrients and fertilizers for various plants, including Hoyas. These fertilisers provide all the required nutrients to the plants and promote growth and development. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Hoya plant – from its characteristics to its propagation and care.

Botany of Hoya Plant

Hoyas are sensitive evergreen climbers that make stunning houseplants. During the summer, they develop fragrant clusters of waxy white flowers that are particularly lovely in the evening. Here are some botanical features of the Hoya plant.

1. Origin and Habitat

• Hoyas, often known as wax plants, are Asian native plants with fragrant, low-maintenance tropical blossoms.
• These are popular houseplants in temperate areas.

2. Physical Characteristics

• Leaves: The leaves of Hoya plants are leathery, fleshy, or succulent with egg or lance shape. 
• Stems: The stems are cylindrical and sparsely branched.
• Flowers: Hoya plants have star-shaped flowers with fleshy or waxy textures and various colors. They are usually arranged in umbels on peduncles between the leaves.
• Fruit: The Hoya plant produces spindle-shaped to oval follicles that hold flattened, oblong to egg-shaped seeds with a hairy tuft at one end.
• Roots: Hoya plants have adventitious roots that help them cling to soil to absorb nutrients.

3. Reproduction

• Hoya plants propagate through both seedings and vegetation.
• They usually rely on insect pollination and produce follicles with tiny and dispersed seeds.

Characteristics of Hoya Plant

Hoyas are popular among gardeners because they have fragrant flowers, various leaves, and many growing options. Here are some characteristics of the Hoya plant.

• Gardeners appreciate hoya plants for their small, star-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters and often smell delightful. 
• Hoyas are climbing vines with sturdy stems, which makes them great for hanging baskets, trellises, or decorative cascading plants. 
• The plant has thick, fleshy, and shiny leaves, earning it the nickname “wax plant.” The leaves come in different sizes, shapes, and colors depending on the species or type. 
• There are about 200 to 300 species of hoyas worldwide, offering many choices, including Hoya carnosa, Hoya lanceolata bella, and Hoya australis. 
• Hoyas mostly grow as trailing or climbing plants, with vines that can reach between 2 and 30 feet long, depending on the type.

Types of Hoya Plant

Hoyas have a large diversity of species and cultivars. Some of the common types are:

Benefits of Growing Hoya Plants in Garden

The Hoya (Hoya carnosa) is a succulent vine, or wax plant, native to Southeast Asia. The plant has fleshy, shiny leaves that can hold water, which is part of what makes it succulent. The following are just a few of the advantages of raising Hoya plants:

• Air Purification: Hoya can help remove carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and other potentially harmful particles in the air.
• Releases Oxygen: Hoya helps to purify air, it absorbs carbon dioxide and releases fresh oxygen.
• Boosts Mood and Productivity: The Hoya plant supports mental health. We work better and we concentrate better with more oxygen and there must be cleaner air. It could also lift everyone’s spirits and re-energize after a tough week.
• Raises Humidity: It releases water vapor as it grows to boost humidity. This additional moisture can increase work capacity and sleep.
• Aids with Allergies: The Hoya plant purifies the air and offers humidity, helping allergy sufferers. It can lessen allergy symptoms and may also help prevent allergic reactions.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The flowers of the Hoya plant have terpenes, which act as natural anti-inflammatories. This can help with skin issues like breakouts and improve skin brightness.
• Healing of wounds: Hoya is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that aid in healing external wounds, protecting them from irritants and infections.
• Rich in Antioxidants: The flowers of Hoya contain a molecule called flavone, which is one of the most potent antioxidants. Flavone fastens cell growth and helps in healing in several conditions by removing inflammation.
• Low Maintenance and Easy Care: Hoyas are perfect for the expert and novice. Much like other hoyas, these are very easy to grow and will do well indoors. Their glossy foliage remains fresh even with neglectful care. Although blossoms are uncommon and hard to come by, the plant lives for a long time and is easy to care for.
• Increase Aesthetic Appeal: Many people love to collect Hoya plants. Those who have several types are often called “Hoya hoarders.” The Hoya adds rich greenery and vintage charm to any room. Its attractive flowers also bring a modern touch to the home.

How to Propagate and Grow Hoya Plant?

Hoya plants are easy to grow and propagate. Here are two simple ways to propagate them efficiently in the garden:

1. Take Hoyas Cuttings

• In the spring when the plant is actively growing, take hoya cuttings. Do not rush the cutting until the hoyas have fresh growth and leave on for the most abundant root production.
• Seek out healthy green growth to cut, and avoid any stems or leaves that are yellow or brown.
• Cut a piece of stem 4–5 inches long below a leaf node. Employ a sharp, clean knife or scissors to cut. Find the nodes where the leaves meet the stem.
• Make your bottom cut as close to a node as possible an then measure up about 4–5 inches and make your top cut just above another node.
• Remove the two lower leaves from the stem to reveal nodes. Gently squeeze the leaves near where they meet the stem, then remove them and discard.
• Leave the others attached to the stem, and do not remove them to allow the stem to soak up sunlight and develop strong roots.
• Dip the base of the stem into the rooting hormone powder. Completely coat the stem in the hormone.
• Make sure the powder coats the exposed nodes so that the stem has an opportunity to grow roots instead of new leaves or branches.
• A rooting hormone aids in getting the hoya stem to form roots through the nodes instead of new leaves.

2. Rooting Hoya Cuttings

Once you have your Hoya cuttings, it is time to root them. This procedure comprises the following steps:

• First, propagate the hoya. Water is an easy way to start roots. Fill a small clear jar or vase with clean tap water. Place the stem into the water until at least one leaf node is fully submerged.
• Replace the water every 2-3 days, or when it appears cloudy. Gardeners should expect roots to form from the bottom of the cutting in ten days.
• After the roots have developed, pot into a 3-4 inch pot using orchid potting. Plant the cutting, ensuring that the roots are completely buried.
• Hoya roots are ‘sensitive’ and may or may not make it after being dislodged. If that doesn’t work, then there’s the soil approach.
• For best results, stick the cutting into soil, not water. Root in a pot of peat moss and perlite. Select a pot around 3-4″ in diameter with drainage holes.
• Mix the peat moss and perlite well, then add it to the pot. Leave about 1 inch of space at the top to prevent overflow when watering hoyas.
• Next, push the hoya stem's bottom 1 inch (2.5 cm) into the potting mix. Center the stem in the pot to give it space to grow.
• Put the stem and exposed nodes of the philodendron to cover them with potting mix. Pack the mixture lightly around the stem to secure it.
• To promote root development, keep the soil surface moist. Water the potting mix with the help of a watering can. Keep watering until you see water coming out of the bottom drainage holes.
• After watering, examine the pot every couple of days. Water it lightly again if the surface of the cutting feels dry.
• Maintain high humidity by covering the pot with a plastic bag (a large resealable bag or old shopping bag will work).
• Hang the bag from a bent wire hanger or a stick to keep it off the leaves and stem. Tape or use a rubber band to seal the bag around the pot.

Hoya Plant Care

While Hoya will fend very well by itself even when neglected, but for good growth of Hoya, gardeners must cultivate Hoya's according to the following steps:

1. Ensure Proper Light

Hoya plants thrive on bright, indirect light. They thrive under the trees where they receive filtered light. If the plant is not flowering, it might not be getting enough light. It might help if you move it somewhere brighter.

Indoors, place it near a window with indirect sunlight. If necessary, sheer drapes can moderate harsh sunlight. Hoya Carnosa likes a shaded spot outside to protect it from the sun.

2. Well-Draining Soil

Hoya plants require well-draining soil to ensure their roots remain dry. An equal parts mix of perlite, peat moss, and potting soil would be ideal. This will prevent rot from water.

A pot with a hole in the bottom is certainly important because it allows excess water to escape out of the pot instead of pooling at the bottom. Repotting every couple of years is key, particularly if roots begin poking out of drainage holes.

3. Optimal Watering

Hoya plants require only occasional watering when the soil an inch below the surface feels dry. Overwatering is one of the most common issues, so aim to water less frequently rather than too much.

When watering, let it drain out of the pot’s drainage holes and discard any excess sitting in the saucer. With these tropical plants, room-temperature water works best. Watering: More frequent in hot and dry conditions; can tolerate longer dry periods in the winter.

4. Maintain Temperature and Humidity

Hoya plants like being between 60°F and 85°F; anything lower than that and get them inside. It prefers moderate humidity, but a humidifier can help this one withstand the dry air of winter. Hoya plants are also one of the plants that thrive from grouping, which can raise local humidity indoors and benefit the plant.

5. Use Fertilizer

You can feed hoya plants to make them grow faster and bloom more. Feed every four weeks during the spring and summer.

It is suggested that a balanced (water-soluble type) of liquid fertilizer be used to prevent over-fertilization and root injury. With proper care, the plant can flourish and beautify for years.

6. Potting and Repotting

Hoya plant repotting every 2-3 years gives fresh soil and more space for root growth. Work Time for Repotting: The Best time to repot is in spring or summer, during active growing.

To repot, gently yank the plant out of the pot, breaking free bound roots if necessary. Shake off the old soil and move the plant to a pot a little bigger, which has drainage holes. Fill the remaining space in with fresh soil around the roots, pressing it lightly, but firmly.

When you have repotted, water your plant so you can help the lower soil to moisten up. Position it in a bright place with indirect light and don’t overwater while the plant gets used to its new surroundings.

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Common Problems and Solutions of Hoya Plants

Hoya plants are typically hearty and easy keepers, but they can experience a few common problems if their basic requirements are not met. Recognizing and solving these concerns early maintains the plant growing strong and healthy. Here’s a little help on some common challenges and possible solutions:

1. Yellowing Leaves

• Cause: Overwatering is a common problem, which results in waterlogged roots and stress.
• Solution: Cut back on watering and make sure there is good drainage in the pot. Do not let the plant stand in water for any length of time.

2. Leaf Drop

• Cause: The temperature fluctuates or the amount of water is too thin or too full, which can cause the leaves to fall off.
• Solution: Keep the temperature steady between 60-85°F (you can take it outside as long as it's not too cold), and water only when the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch. Keep away from drafts, hot or cold weather.

3. Wilting or Soft Leaves

• Cause: Droopy, soft leaves can be a sign of underwatering or root rot as a result of overwatering.
• Solution: Test the soil for moisture. If dry, water thoroughly. If the plant is overwatered, look for root rot and transplant into fresh, well-draining soil when necessary.

4. Lack of Flowers

• Cause: Too little light, no food, or stress (too much repotting) can delay blooming.
• Solution: Make sure the plant receives bright, indirect light and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid unnecessary repotting.

5. Pests

• Cause: Hoya plants can be infrequently affected by common pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids.

Solution: Keep an eye on the plant. Wipe down leaves with a moist cloth and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of pests.

The Bottom Line

The Hoya plant is attractive and simple to care for. It has star-shaped flowers and helps purify the air. It needs bright but indirect light, good-quality soil, and careful watering to keep a hoya healthy. With proper care, the Hoya plant can thrive for years.

Growcycle provides excellent tips for caring for plants like the Hoya. These tips help gardeners and homeowners grow beautiful Hoya plants and increase the beauty of their gardens or lawns.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

Sources:

1. Wiki - Hoya plant

2. Gardeners - How to care for a Hoya

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.

Before joining Growcycle, Victor worked for several agricultural and environmental publications, reporting on significant environmental issues and interviewing key figures in the sustainability sector. His work has been featured in various industry journals and online platforms.