The Hoya, often known as the Wax Plant, is one of the most enchanting and rewarding indoor plants, prized for its thick, glossy foliage and clusters of star-shaped, nectar-rich flowers. Native to tropical Asia and Australia, Hoyas are adored by plant enthusiasts for their easy-care nature, trailing or climbing habit, and long lifespan. At Boma Garden Centre in Kentish Town, our curated Hoya collection is chosen for quality, variety and suitability for London homes.

Hoyas thrive in bright, indirect light and enjoy warm indoor temperatures, making them perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, home offices and plant shelves. Their waxy leaves store moisture, giving them a succulent-like resilience that makes them forgiving for busy or occasional plant owners. With patience and proper light, Hoyas reward you with delicate, fragrant umbels of flowers that can appear repeatedly throughout the year.

Popular Hoya Varieties

Hoya carnosa

A classic species with thick green leaves and sweetly scented pink flowers. Extremely hardy and suitable for beginners.

Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Queen’

Featuring creamy white leaf margins and soft pink stems, this variegated variety brightens any room and grows vigorously in good light.

Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Princess’

Variegation is reversed compared to Krimson Queen, with creamy centres and green edges. Perfect for hanging pots and plant shelves.

Hoya pubicalyx

Fast-growing with long, slender leaves and flecked silver markings. Produces clusters of dramatic star-shaped blooms in deep pink or red.

Hoya kerrii (Sweetheart Plant)

Recognised by its heart-shaped leaves, often sold as single-leaf plants. A charming choice for gifts and minimalist interiors.

Hoya linearis

A unique, soft-textured species with fine, trailing foliage. Ideal for macramé hangers and bright windows where its delicate strands can cascade.

Hoya australis

A robust climber with rounder, glossy leaves. Grows well on moss poles or trellises and produces beautifully scented white flowers.

How to Care for a Hoya

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Many Hoyas will tolerate some direct morning or late-afternoon sun, which can encourage flowering.

Watering

Allow the top third of the compost to dry between waterings. Hoyas dislike being waterlogged, so ensure excellent drainage.

Humidity & Temperature

Hoyas enjoy moderate to high humidity and temperatures between 18–25°C. Bathrooms, kitchens or rooms with humidifiers are ideal for flowering varieties.

Feeding

Use a high-potassium fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to support strong blooms and healthy foliage.

Pruning & Training

Leave old flower spurs intact—Hoyas re-bloom from the same points. Train climbing varieties on trellises or allow trailing types to cascade freely.

Potting

Hoyas prefer snug pots and well-aerated compost. Repot every 2–3 years only when roots fill the pot.

FAQs

Why isn’t my Hoya flowering?

Insufficient light is the most common reason. Move the plant to a brighter location and avoid overwatering.

Are Hoyas pet-safe?

They are generally considered non-toxic but can cause mild stomach upset if chewed.

Can Hoyas grow in low light?

They can survive but will grow slowly and rarely flower. Bright indirect light is best.

Should I mist my Hoya?

Light misting is fine, but avoid wetting flower clusters. Humidity trays or room humidifiers are better options.