Hoya Vines: What to Know and How to Display

Written by Jennifer Hollohan
Updated: June 4, 2023
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If you are searching for a low-maintenance and unique way to spruce up your home décor, look no further than hoya plants. These tropical plants are well-known (and prized) for their stunning, fragrant flowers and trailing vines. Many varieties also have thick leaves with a waxy feel, adding additional aesthetic appeal. When hoyas are cared for properly, they can live for many years or even decades. 

The article below will cover everything you need to properly care for and display your hoya plants, so you can best showcase the beautiful hoya vines. So let’s dive on in!

Proper Growing Conditions

Hoyas are native to tropical and subtropical regions, so they prefer humid and warm environments. They are typically kept indoors in cooler climates. However, in Zones 10 and 11, they will survive outside year-round. No matter where you keep your hoya (indoors or out), there are some key care notes you should be aware of. Following these tips will help you grow long, stunning hoya vines to show off for years to come!

Light 

Almost all hoya varieties prefer bright, indirect sunlight. However, a few hoya plants can tolerate small amounts of direct light. Contact your local nursery or read our handy guides if you have questions about your specific hoya. But unless you have one of the few hoya plants that can withstand small amounts of direct light, any periods of intense sunlight will scorch their leaves. 

A north or east-facing window is a good choice for hoyas. They need a minimum of six hours every day. However, if you supplement their light with a grow light, increase the total exposure to at least 8 hours daily. 

Temperature and Humidity

As mentioned above, hoyas thrive in humid and warm environments. The optimal temperature is between 60-80°F (15-27°C). That said, they can tolerate short bouts of colder temperatures. Just be sure to keep them away from cool drafts. 

They also require humidity levels of at least 50%. However, don’t worry if the air in your home is too dry. You can place a tray of water near your hoya, use a humidifier, or mist the foliage to keep them happy.

Soil

All hoya plants are susceptible to root rot. So they need loose, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. You can opt for a mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Another option is to select a potting mix marketed to cacti and succulents. That will offer enough drainage for your hoyas.

Watering 

Most hoya plants are drought-tolerant, so you don’t have to worry about watering too often. The best option is to let your plant dry out completely in between waterings during the winter. However, in the summer, you will want to pay closer attention. Wait to water until the soil is dry about 2 inches deep. And do your best to avoid watering the leaves.

Fertilizer

Hoyas do not require frequent fertilization in their peak growing season and none during the winter. You can fertilize them once a month in the spring and summer with a well-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Hoya retusa foliage

Develop long, trailing vines like on this

Hoya retusa

when you care for your plant properly.

©K Hanley CHDPhoto/Shutterstock.com

Propagation of Hoya Vines

Once you start decorating your home with unique and lovely hoya vines, you won’t want to stop. And thankfully, you don’t have to! Hoya plants are relatively easy to propagate, making them an excellent choice for plant enthusiasts hoping to expand their collection. Here are three methods to propagate your own hoyas.

1. Stem Cuttings

Take a cutting from a stem, ensuring it has several leaves and is at least 6 inches long. You can then plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Alternatively, you can place the stem cutting in a glass of water. Either way, keep your new stem cutting in a bright, warm spot. If you plant it in soil, water the cutting sparingly until it has started to develop roots.

2. Layering

Layering involves leaving the stem to its existing plant while pinning it to the soil of a second pot. This action will encourage a new root to grow. Then, once the stem is rooted, you can cut it away from the parent plant.

3. Division

When hoyas get too large for their pot, you don’t necessarily need to repot them. The plants can easily get divided. To do so, gently remove the plant from its pot and divide the root ball into smaller sections. Plant each section in its own pot in well-draining soil.

sweetheart hoya leaf close up

Sweetheart hoyas are regularly sold as single-leaf cuttings.

©Job Narinnate/Shutterstock.com

How to Display Hoya Vines 

Now that you understand how to properly care for your hoya plant to encourage the best possible vine growth, how do you display them? These versatile vines can get displayed in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas for displaying your hoya vines:

Hanging Baskets

This display option is a classic and a go-to choice for hoya collectors. The trailing vines look stunning, cascading out of a hanging basket. Opt for a basket with plenty of drainage holes and add a well-draining soil mix. Hang the basket in a location that receives at least six hours of bright, indirect light daily.

Trellis

A trellis is a decorative structure that works both indoors and out. It supports climbing plants like hoyas. You can buy a pre-made trellis or go the DIY route. For the latter, all you need is bamboo stakes or wire mesh. As your vines grow, train them to climb up the trellis.  

Terrariums

Hoya vines are an excellent choice for terrariums. The enclosed containers create a miniature, ideal environment for plants. Select a container with a lid, small rocks, moss, and well-draining soil. After placing your hoya in the terrarium, put it in a location that receives adequate indirect sunlight. 

Wall-Mounted Planters

Another great way to display your hoya vines is with wall-mounted planters. You can buy pre-made planters at most of your local stores or online. Or, if you are feeling crafty, feel free to design your own using materials like metal or wood. Buy (or plan) an option with a built-in irrigation system to make your watering life easier.  

Curtisii hoya in a hanging basket

Add your hoya to a hanging basket for a truly stunning display.

©AreePho/Shutterstock.com

Potential Issues to Watch Out For

Although hoya plants are relatively low-maintenance, they can still face some issues. Here are some of the more common problems to watch out for:

Pests

Indoor hoya plants are not as likely to battle pest issues, but it is not impossible. The most frequent visitors to all hoya plants are aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. So keep an eye out for signs of an infestation. You will want to watch for sticky residue on the leaves and webbing. The pests are easily removed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth. Additionally, you can treat your hoya vines with neem oil or insecticidal soap. 

Root Rot

This devastating disease is the most common one to impact hoyas in general. Root rot is caused by overwatering. So let the top 2 inches of soil dry out before re-watering. It will also help to avoid getting water on the leaves unless you are using a mister. 

Lack of Growth

If your hoya is not developing the vines you had hoped for, or producing flowers regularly, it may not be getting enough light. Try moving it to a brighter location or adding grow lights. 

You cannot go wrong by adding hoya vines to your interior and exterior decor. When they are displayed well, they will add a stunning, eye-catching aesthetic to your home or office. Make sure to follow the care instructions and keep an eye out for any issues to improve your plant’s lifespan. 

Eskimo hoya in a hanging planter

When a hoya is well cared for, like this Eskimo hoya, its vines will cascade out of a hanging planter.

©rattiya lamrod/Shutterstock.com

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Tami Poliwoda/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Jennifer Hollohan is a writer at A-Z Animals, where her primary focus is on gardening, mammals, and travel. Jennifer has over twenty years of writing experience. She holds a Master of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Colorado at Boulder, which she earned in 2005, and is a Herbalist. Jennifer lives in Colorado with her family. She loves hiking, admiring wildflowers, gardening, and making herbal tea.

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