Hoya australis
Hoya australis
Hoya australis, commonly known as the Waxvine or Honey Plant, is a vigorous and resilient climbing vine celebrated for its thick, glossy, deep-green foliage. Native to Australia and the Pacific Islands, it is highly prized for its clusters of star-shaped, porcelain-white flowers that feature a crimson center and emit a powerful, spicy-sweet fragrance, especially in the evening. As one of the faster-growing species in the Hoya genus, it is an excellent choice for indoor trellises and hanging baskets.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Friendly
Hoya australis is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. However, the milky sap may cause mild skin irritation for humans with latex sensitivities.
Care Guide
Hoya australis Care Guide
1. Light and Placement Hoya australis thrives in bright, indirect light. To encourage blooming, ensure it receives at least 6 hours of filtered sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, harsh afternoon rays may scorch the succulent-like leaves.
2. Watering Protocol Allow the top 50% to 75% of the potting medium to dry out before watering thoroughly. Use the 'soak and dry' method, ensuring all excess water drains away to prevent root rot. This plant is drought-tolerant but sensitive to overwatering.
3. Soil and Potting Use a very chunky, well-aerated potting mix. A blend of 50% orchid bark, 25% perlite, and 25% organic potting soil or coco coir is ideal. Hoyas prefer to be slightly root-bound, so avoid frequent repotting.
4. Humidity and Temperature Maintain temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C–27°C). While it tolerates average household humidity, it will grow faster in levels above 50%. Keep away from cold drafts or heating vents.
5. Promoting Blooms To encourage flowering, provide high light and do not prune the peduncles (the small stalks where flowers emerge). Hoya australis will bloom repeatedly from the same peduncle year after year.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer
Soil
Chunky, epiphytic mix including orchid bark and perlite
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
Vines can reach 10 to 20 feet in length indoors
Growth Rate
Fast
Propagation
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes rooted in water, perlite, or sphagnum moss