Hoya Carnosa Canada Care

Identification

Genus	Hoya
Origin	Eastern Asia, Australia
Light	Bright light
Watering Frequency	Allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Toxicity	Non-Toxic

Characteristics

The Hoya Carnosa is defined by its thick, green, succulent-like leaves that are found on opposite sides along the plant’s stems.

Like most Hoyas, the Hoya Carnosa fairs better with a light watering hand and bright light – making the variety a fun and easy-going plant to grow as houseplants.

There are many cultivars of Hoya carnosa out there – including the Hoya carnosa jade, Hoya carnosa krinkle (defined by its wrinkly leaves), Hoya carnosa variegata (leaf borders are creamy white), and Hoya carnosa Krimson Queen (white, pink and green – see image above).

Origin and Indoor Environment

Hoya Carnosa is native to Eastern Asia and Australia, where it grows epiphytically – latching on to the trunks and branches of trees to support it’s growth upwards.

When grown indoors, you can also opt to put the plant on a trellis to mimic it’s natural environment – or simply allow the plant to trail from a ceramic or terracotta pot.

Lighting Needs

Like other Hoya types, the Hoya Obovata requires bright light to thrive. It is not recommended that you place this this variety in low-light conditions.

East, West, and even South-facing windows are optimal for those of us living in Canada (or in the Northern Hemisphere).

If you are concerned about the lighting conditions for your Hoya Carnosa, consider purchasing a grow light to ensure your plant is able to receive the lighting it needs.

Watering Frequency

The Hoya Carnosa does well with a gentle watering hand (similar to succulents). Because of this, we recommend waiting for the soil to completely dry out in between waterings. When watering, be sure to water thoroughly – especially during the growing season between Spring and Fall.

If you’re unsure if the soil is dry (without moisture), you can also use tools like moisture meters that indicate to the user how moist the soil is.

If you do not have a moisture meter on hand, simply stick your finger directly into the soil – if the first 2 inches of soil is dry than it’s time for water. If the soil is still moist, hold off and check back in a couple days until the soil is completely dry.

Potting Mix, Soil, and Fertilization

The Hoya Carnosa prefers well-draining, chunky soil. You can mix your own soil or purchase a chunky potting mix for your plant.

Fertilizing your Hoya Carnosa in the growing season (spring and summer) is also important for ensuring that your plant is getting all the nutrients it needs. Choose a complete fertilizer to ensure your Hoya Carnosa’s long-term success.

Hoya Carnosa Blooms

The Hoya Carnosa produces parachute-like buds that are clustered together that will eventually form white to light pink flowers – known for their sweet scent.

Your Hoya Carnosa will need to be at least 2 years old in order for it to be able to bloom. Ensure houseplant is receiving the correct growing conditions (bright light, infrequent waterings, chunky potting mix) to increase the likelihood of a bloom from occurring.

Propagation

You can propagate the Hoya Carnosa easily in water – simply take a cutting with at least 2 nodes and remove the leaves from the bottom node. Simply place the cuttings in water, and replenish the water weekly.

Once the roots have grown at least an inch, you’ll be able to easily transfer them to soil.

Pests and Disease

Hoyas can be the targets of the usual houseplant pest culprits: aphids, mealybugs, scale, and spider mites have been known to take a liking to Hoyas.

To reduce the likelihood of an infestation from occurring we recommend regularly cleaning the leaves of your Hoya Carnosa as well as using a deterring agent such as neem oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hoya Carnosa fast growing?

Hoya Carnosa can be a fast grower in the right growing conditions. They require bright, direct light, infrequent waterings, chunky potting mix, and regular fertilization in the growing season to encourage growth.

What does an overwatered Hoya look like?

If the leaves begin wilting (are limp and soft to touch) on your Hoya, this could be a sign of overwatering.

Is Hoya Carnosa easy to care for?

Hoya Carnosa prefer bright, direct light (East, West, and South facing windows could work), infrequent waterings (wait for the soil to dry out between waterings), chunky, well draining potting mix, and fertilization in the growing season.