Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ is a popular houseplant, prized for its distinctive variegated foliage and charming blooms. Its leaves display a blend of dark green, lime green, creamy yellow, and soft peach, often appearing scarlet red when new. While the leaves are a primary draw, the flowers also offer a unique appeal, particularly due to their scent.
Hoya Australis Lisa Flower Characteristics
The flowers of Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ are small, star-shaped, and white, often with pink or red centers. These individual flowers are grouped in dense clusters called umbels, which can contain up to 40 blooms. The blossoms have a waxy, porcelain-like texture. Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ commonly flowers in summer and autumn, and can produce multiple flushes of blooms throughout the year under good conditions.
The plant develops flower spurs, known as peduncles, from which new flowers emerge. Do not remove these peduncles after blooming, as the plant will rebloom from the same spot repeatedly. The flowers also produce nectar.
The Distinctive Scent of Hoya Australis Lisa Flowers
Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ flowers are notably fragrant, contributing a pleasant aroma to any indoor space. Many describe the scent as a sweet mixture, often with notes of vanilla, chocolate, or caramel. Some individuals also detect a citrusy or almond extract quality. The intensity of the fragrance can vary, with some finding a strong, pervasive smell, while others find it more subtle.
The scent is generally most noticeable in the evening or at night, a common characteristic among many Hoya species. This nocturnal fragrance is thought to attract pollinators in their natural habitat. While personal perception of scents can differ, the overall impression is typically sweet and pleasant, though some find the strong perfume-like quality overwhelming.
What Influences the Flower’s Scent
Several factors influence the intensity and nuances of the Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ flower’s scent. Environmental conditions play a significant role, including light exposure, temperature, and humidity. For instance, a cooler, drier environment might make the fragrance more perceptible than hot, humid conditions, where moisture in the air can dilute the scent.
The overall health and maturity of the plant also contribute to its blooming and scent production. A well-nourished and thriving plant is more likely to produce robust, fragrant blooms. The fragrance is often strongest during the first few nights after opening. Nutrient levels in the soil, particularly the balance of phosphorus and potassium, can also affect the scent.
Optimizing Bloom and Scent in Your Hoya Australis Lisa
Encouraging your Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ to bloom is essential for experiencing its unique fragrance. Providing bright, indirect light is important, as sufficient light encourages flowering and vibrant leaf variegation. Too little light may slow growth and reduce bloom production. Some growers recommend providing 12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of darkness to stimulate flowering.
Proper watering is also important; allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Avoid prolonged dry periods that can stress the plant. During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize regularly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer, or one higher in phosphorus, to support flower development. Maintaining moderate to high humidity, ideally between 40-60%, can also contribute to blooming.