Wax plants, scientifically known as Hoya, are popular houseplants. Their common name derives from the distinctive waxy appearance of their leaves and flowers. These plants are appreciated for their diverse and striking coloration.
Hoya Flower Color Diversity
Hoya flowers present a wide spectrum of colors. Many species commonly feature blossoms in shades of white, various pinks, and reds. Less common flower colors include yellow, orange, purple, and even green or brownish hues. These star-shaped flowers often grow in ball-shaped clusters and possess a unique waxy texture.
The shade of Hoya flowers can change depending on environmental conditions or the age of the bloom. For instance, pale pink flowers of Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Queen’ can become more vibrant in the evening. Many Hoya flowers produce a sticky, sweet nectar and emit fragrances, often more intense at night, with notes reminiscent of honey, chocolate, or vanilla.
Hoya Leaf Color Variety
Hoya leaves showcase a range of colors and patterns beyond green. Many varieties exhibit variegation, which introduces other colors. Variegation refers to patterns of different colored zones in the leaves, including inner, outer, splash, and mottled types. These patterns can infuse the foliage with white, cream, pink, yellow, and even silvery tones.
Leaf color and variegation are governed by the plant’s genetics, but light exposure significantly influences their vibrancy. Variegated Hoya plants often require brighter light conditions to maintain their patterns, as the non-green areas of the leaves have less chlorophyll. Insufficient light can cause variegation to fade or become less pronounced.
Iconic Hoya Varieties and Their Colors
Specific Hoya varieties are known for their distinctive leaf or flower coloration. Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Queen’ has foliage that is typically green in the interior with variegated edges of white, cream, and pink. Conversely, its sister plant, Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Princess’, displays variegation mostly in the center of the leaf, with green borders. New leaves on ‘Krimson Princess’ can emerge a reddish pink.
Hoya publicalyx has elongated leaves often speckled with silver flecks, known as “splash” patterns. New leaves can emerge with pinkish hues or dark purple before maturing to green with silver spots.
Hoya obovata features large, round, deep green leaves with silver splash patterns. The ‘Splash’ cultivar has green leaves with yellow variegation in the center and white splashes throughout.
Hoya kerrii ‘Variegata’ has heart-shaped leaves that are green with distinct white edges. Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ showcases multi-color variegation, with new growth appearing orangish-red that gradually fades into yellow and green. Its ovate leaves exhibit green, yellow, and pink.
Optimizing Hoya Coloration
To maintain Hoya colors, specific care practices are important for both leaves and flowers. Light exposure is a primary factor influencing color intensity. Bright, indirect light is ideal, promoting variegation in leaves and encouraging flowering. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves or cause colors to fade, while insufficient light can lead to faded foliage and a lack of blooms.
Proper watering contributes to plant health and color. Hoya plants prefer their soil to dry out between waterings, as they are susceptible to root rot. Overwatering can cause leaves to yellow and drop. Moderate to high humidity levels support healthy growth and color, especially for tropical varieties.
Fertilization sustains coloration and encourages blooms. During the active growing season, a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer supports foliage and flower development. For flowering, a fertilizer with higher phosphorus helps, particularly in the months leading up to the plant’s typical blooming period. Consistent care contributes to the long-term vibrancy of Hoya plants.