Hoya Care
Hoya (Wax Plant)
Overview
- Thick, waxy foliage in a wide variety of shapes and variegations
- Produces clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers under ideal conditions
- Drought-tolerant and well-suited for hanging baskets or mounted displays
- Ideal as a trailing plant or grown on minimalist trellises for sculptural impact
Hoya—known widely as the Wax Plant—is a genus of epiphytic vines and shrubs celebrated for their fleshy, often variegated foliage and porcelain-like blooms. Each species brings its own flair, from trailing vines to heart-shaped leaves to sweet, nectar-dripping flowers. At BoDurtha’s, we offer Hoya as a resilient, textural option for collectors who love subtle beauty, long form, and light floral rewards.
Origins
Native to Southeast Asia, India, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, where they grow as epiphytes on trees or rock faces in warm, humid forests.
Light Requirements
Hoyas prefer bright, indirect light.
- Will tolerate medium light but may not bloom
- Direct sun can bleach or burn foliage, especially on variegated types
- East or filtered south-facing windows work best
- Higher light levels encourage compact growth and flowering
Watering
Allow soil to dry out almost completely between waterings.
- Hoyas are semi-succulent and store water in their leaves
- Overwatering is the most common cause of failure
- In winter, reduce watering frequency significantly
- Thin-leaved varieties may need slightly more water than thick-leaved types
Soil & Potting
Use a loose, airy Aroid Mix with added orchid bark or perlite.
- A chunky, epiphytic-style mix replicates their natural environment
- Avoid dense, moisture-retentive soil
- Terracotta or hanging pots with excellent drainage are ideal
Fertilizer
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced or bloom-focused fertilizer, diluted to half strength.
- Flush with plain water occasionally to prevent salt buildup
- Cut back on feeding in the winter months
- High-phosphorus formulas can support blooming in mature, well-lit specimens
Recommended Growth Style: Freeform or Trailing
Hoyas grow best when allowed to drape, climb, or twist organically.
- Use minimalist trellises or hanging pots to emphasize their natural curves
- Avoid excessive pruning, as they flower from old growth (peduncles)
- Allow vines to harden off before training or shaping
Final Notes
Hoyas are the slow-burn romantics of the plant world—low maintenance, subtly stunning, and often surprising. Their lush, trailing growth brings softness to interiors, while their blooms (when they arrive) are unforgettable. At BoDurtha’s, we love their sculptural versatility and the way they reward patience with charm.