Hoyas, also known as wax plants, are tropical succulents. They are known for their ability to remove toxins from air, and their fragrant, star-shaped flowers have been used in powders, perfumes, and more for centuries. They're as low-maintenance as they come, and provide spaces with gorgeous trailing vines that can climb or drape. With at least 900 different varieties, there's a reason these plants are considered collectibles. These plant blooms in different shades of pink, red, and white.
GENERAL CARE
LIGHT
Bright indirect light. Some direct light is okay.
WATER
Water every 2 weeks or when soil is dry.
FEEDING
Use diluted plant food once a month in the spring and summer. Stop feeding in the fall and winter since the plant goes dormant and will not need the extra nutrients.
TOXICITY
Non-toxic, making it the perfect plant for pet owners.
Care instructions are usually consistent for most hoyas, but we always recommend researching your specific plant to make sure you get it right the first time.
COMMON ISSUES
Watering hoyas can be a bit tricky. We get it... tropical succulent? Sounds fake. This just means that the plants have adapted to survive the dry seasons of their native Southeast Asia and Australia by developing succulent leaves, and can go a decent amount of time without water. Still, being a tropical plant, it doesn't love staying dry for too long, and this is where things get confusing. It's important to make sure your hoya's thirst is quenched, but you have to be careful not to overdo it. Watering when the soil is completely dry is the key to avoiding overwatering. In the winter, you can even let the soil stay dry for a few extra days. Your hoya will tell you when it's parched by wrinkling its leaves. It's best not to let things get to that pont, though.
To get it right the first time, we suggest using a very well-aerated potting mix. You can use sand, leca, lava rocks, or generous amounts of perlite to help optimize oxygen intake. This not only prevents root rot, but promotes healthy root growth, which ultimately leads to a very happy plant. A happy plant brings you closer to those famous star-shaped flowers that smell amazing.
