Hoya Australis: Overview

Hoya Australis, commonly known as the Wax Plant or Australian Wax Vine, is a tropical succulent prized for its lush, green foliage and fragrant star-shaped flowers. Originating from Australia, this climbing and hanging plant belongs to the Apocynaceae family and thrives in USDA hardy plant zones 10-12. Known for its longevity, the Hoya Australis can live for many years with proper care. It is a sun-loving plant that prefers bright, indirect light. This tropical beauty is relatively easy to care for, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. 

Symbolically, the Hoya Australis is associated with protection and friendship, often given as a gift to express these sentiments. This plant is also celebrated for its attractive blooms and pleasant fragrance, adding an extra layer of appeal. Alongside the Hoya Australis, other popular Hoya plants include the Hoya Pubicalyx 'Splash' Hoya pubicalyx 'Splash' and Hoya Tricolor Trellis Hoya carnosa 'Tricolor,' both available here at Lively Root. 

Hoya Plant: Benefits

• It has air-purifying solid properties, improving indoor air quality.
• The plant carries symbolic meanings of protection and friendship.
• Its lush, green foliage and star-shaped Hoya Australis flowers add aesthetic value.
• The aromatic Hoya Australis blooms are perfect for enhancing bedrooms and offices.
• The Hoya plant is easy to care for, making it ideal for people with busy schedules.

Hoya Plants: Alternative Names

• Wax flower
• Wax plant
• Waxvine
• Porcelain Flower Plant
• Honey Plant

Hoya Australis Plant: Care Guide

Hoya Australis is a relatively easy-care plant, perfect for novice and experienced gardeners. Here’s how to keep your Hoya Australis thriving:

Watering and Light

Hoya Australis prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid letting the plant sit in water. This houseplant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon. 

Temperature and Humidity

Keep your Hoya Australis in a warm environment, ideally between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It appreciates higher humidity levels but can adapt to average household humidity. For optimal growth, consider placing it in a bathroom or using a humidifier. 

Soil, Feeding, and Repotting

Use a well-draining soil mix, such as one for succulents or orchids. A mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark works well. Repot your Hoya Australis every two to three years or when it outgrows its current pot, preferably in the spring. Feed your Hoya Australis with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).     

Propagation and Pruning

Propagate by stem cuttings; simply cut a healthy stem below a node and place it in water or directly into the soil. Within a few weeks, your baby hoya plant will develop roots. Prune the plant to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves. 

Common Issues

Watch out for common pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues. Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, while wilting suggests the plant needs more water. 

Hoya Australis: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

The Hoya Australis is a versatile plant that can enhance various spaces in your home. Here are some suggestions for its ideal placement and suitable companion and alternative plants to create a harmonious indoor garden.

Best Locations & Uses

• Perfect for hanging baskets or shelves as its trailing vines look stunning, cascading from higher spots.
• Great for bedrooms and offices due to its air-purifying properties.
• It can thrive outdoors in indirect light, adding greenery to your outdoor living areas.
• It’s non-toxic to pets, making it safe for homes with animals.
• Its easy-care nature and beautiful blooms make it a thoughtful and charming flowering plant gift.  

Companion Plants

Some excellent companion plants pair perfectly with the Hoya Australis, enhancing its beauty and thriving alongside it. 

• Jade and Pearl Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’): With similar light and water needs as Hoya Australis, the Jade and Pearl Pothos plant makes a great companion.
• Black Raven ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Black Raven’): The low-maintenance nature of the Black Raven ZZ Plant complements the easy-care Hoya.
• Dracaena Magenta Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata’): The Dracaena Magenta adds a striking contrast with its dark leaves.

Alternative Plants

If you’re looking for similar pet-friendly plants, consider these alternatives available on Lively Root:

• Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata): The Ponytail Palm Tree is a visually exciting and low-maintenance plant with a unique appearance.
• Bromeliad Neoregelia (Neoregelia Bromeliad): The Bromeliad Neoregelia offers vibrant colors and is easy to care for, adding a tropical vibe to your space.
• Calathea Concinna 'Freddy' (Calathea concinna 'Freddie'): Known for its beautiful foliage, Calathea Concinna ‘Freddy’ has patterned leaves and pet-safe qualities.

Elevate Your Space With the Exotic Hoya Australis From LivelyRoot 

Bring home a Hoya Australis from Lively Root today and enjoy its air-purifying properties, striking blooms, and easy-care nature.