Hoya care and facts

Scientific division

Hoya belongs to the Apocynaceae family, also known as the buttercup plants. The genus is large and diverse with over 500 known species. Some of the most well-known in cultivation are Hoya carnosa which is a classic in many homes, Hoya pubicalyx with its purple hues on the flowers, Hoya kerrii which is called heart-shaped porcelain flower and is sold as small-leaved cuttings, and Hoya linearis which has thin, hanging leaves.

Origin

Hoyas are native to Asia and Oceania. They often grow as epiphytes in tropical environments, meaning they live on other plants without taking their nutrients from them. They use their roots to attach themselves to tree trunks and branches, while sending out long tendrils that snake their way through the moist vegetation. This origin explains why Hoyas thrive best in homes with airy soil, the ability to climb or hang freely, and access to consistent heat and high humidity.

Hoya at home

Hoya is a favorite for collectors but also for beginners who want a plant that combines hardiness with unique flowering. The decorative leaves are beautiful all year round, but it is the flowers that make Hoya so special. They are in clusters and look almost like porcelain stars with their waxy surface. Many species also spread an intense and lovely fragrance that is usually strongest in the evening. Another advantage is that a healthy Hoya can bloom in the same place year after year, making it a long-lived and reliable houseplant.

Location and light

Hoyas like to be in the light and bloom best when they get a lot of light. An east or west window is ideal and most species also appreciate a few hours of sun a day. However, avoid strong, scorching midday sun which can cause spots on the leaves. If the Hoya does not bloom even though it is growing well, it is often because it is in too dark. During the winter, additional plant lighting can give it enough light for continued growth.

Temperature

Hoya thrives in normal room temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees. It can handle slightly cooler nights, but prolonged cold below 10 degrees will cause it to suffer damage. For best results, avoid placing it in drafts or near elements that dry out the air.

Humidity

Since Hoyas grow in tropical environments in nature, they thrive best in a humidity of at least 50 percent. However, they can handle drier air better than many other tropical plants thanks to their waxy leaves. During the winter when the air is extra dry, you can help them by grouping them with other plants, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a saucer of clay balls and water. A shower of lukewarm water on the leaves from time to time also helps keep them clean and fresh.

Watering

Hoyas do not like to be kept in constantly moist soil. Many species have succulent-like leaves that store water, which makes them sensitive to overwatering. Therefore, let the soil dry out thoroughly between waterings. During the summer, when growth is stronger, they need more water, while during the winter they can do with significantly less. A common mistake is to water too often, which leads to root rot. It is better to wait an extra day and give one big watering rather than many small ones.

Fertilization

To encourage both growth and flowering, Hoyas can be fed during the spring and summer. A liquid nutrient designed for flowering plants works well as it contains extra phosphorus which stimulates bud formation. During the winter when Hoyas grow more slowly, fertilizing can be reduced or paused.

Transplantation

Hoyas like to be a little cramped in their pots and don't need to be repotted often. In fact, many bloom more abundantly when the roots have filled the pot properly. When it is time to repot, it should be done in the spring. The soil should be well-drained and airy. You can use a mixture of regular potting soil, perlite and orchid soil to mimic their natural environment. Putting Leca balls in the bottom of the pot is also a good way to prevent the roots from standing in water.

Pest

Hoyas are relatively hardy but can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects and spider mites. Prevent problems by keeping the leaves clean and giving the plant the right balance of light and humidity. If you see white, cotton-like clumps or small, cobweb-like threads, this is a sign of infestation. Treat with soapy water, wipe the leaves thoroughly and repeat the treatment several times to get rid of the pests.

Proliferation

Hoyas are easiest to propagate by cuttings. Cut a stem that has at least two pairs of leaves and a node, as this is where the roots develop. The cutting can be placed in water, where roots usually form within a few weeks. When the roots are several centimeters long, the cutting is planted in soil. Another option is to place the cutting directly in soil. In this case, you should create high humidity around the cutting by covering the pot with plastic or placing it in a mini greenhouse. Some growers also use sphagnum moss as a substrate because it keeps the moisture even and at the same time provides good oxygen access to the roots. Once the cutting has established itself, it can be replanted in a regular soil mixture.