Hoya Lisa

Temps below 50 deg add Winter Protection!

Hoya Australis ‘Lisa’: The Tricolor Beauty

Introduction:

The Hoya Lisa is a variegated cultivar of the Hoya Australis, characterized by its vibrant, tricolor leaves that range from green to creamy yellow and pink. The thick, waxy foliage is the main attraction of this plant, but with the right care, it may also produce fragrant, white star-shaped flowers. Its climbing or trailing growth habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets, trellises, or allowing it to cascade from a shelf.

History:

The Hoya Australis is native to Australia and parts of the Pacific Islands, where it grows as an epiphyte in tropical forests. The Lisa variety was cultivated for its stunning variegation, which distinguishes it from the standard green-leaved Hoya Australis. This variety has become increasingly popular due to its striking colors and relatively easy care requirements.

Care Outline:

• Light: Hoya Lisa thrives in bright, indirect light to maintain its colorful variegation. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, especially the cream and pink areas. Aim for 10,000 to 20,000 lux to encourage growth and flowering.
• Water: Water the plant when the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil are dry. The Hoya Lisa is drought-tolerant and prefers its soil to dry out between waterings. Be careful not to overwater, as it is susceptible to root rot. Ensure the pot has good drainage.
• Humidity: This plant enjoys moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%. It can adapt to normal household humidity, but higher humidity levels will encourage better growth and blooming.
• Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Hoya Lisa is 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to the cold.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, light potting mix. A combination of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss works well to ensure proper drainage and aeration. You can also use a succulent or cactus mix.
• Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when growth slows.
• Propagation: Hoya Lisa is easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in soil.

Light and Lux Rating:

To maintain its vibrant variegation, Hoya Lisa requires bright, indirect light, with a lux rating of 10,000 to 20,000 lux. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, particularly the variegated areas, while too little light may cause the variegation to fade.

• Natural Light: Place the plant near an east or north-facing window where it will receive plenty of bright, indirect light throughout the day.
• Artificial Light: If growing under artificial lights, use full-spectrum grow lights and ensure the plant receives 12–16 hours of light per day.

Propagation:

1. Stem Cuttings:

• Best Time: Spring or early summer during the growing season.
• Steps:
  1. Take a cutting with at least one node and a few leaves.
  2. Allow the cutting to dry for a few hours to prevent rot.
  3. Root the cutting in water or directly in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the node is submerged.
  4. Place the cutting in a warm, bright spot with high humidity until roots develop.

2. Layering:

• Steps:
  1. Choose a healthy vine still attached to the mother plant.
  2. Wrap a node with moist sphagnum moss and secure it with plastic wrap.
  3. Once roots develop, cut the stem from the mother plant and pot it in soil.

Soil for Hoya Lisa:

The Hoya Lisa prefers a well-draining, airy mix to prevent water retention and root rot. A recommended mix includes:

• Orchid bark for aeration.
• Perlite or pumice for drainage.
• Peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention.

This soil blend ensures that the plant’s roots stay healthy while providing the moisture they need without becoming waterlogged.

Fertilizing:

• During the growing season, feed the plant every 4–6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which may harm the plant’s roots.
• Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when growth naturally slows down.

Repotting:

• When to Repot: Hoya Lisa prefers to be slightly root-bound and does not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2–3 years, or when the plant outgrows its pot.
• Best Time: Early spring is the ideal time to repot, just before the growing season begins.
• Steps:
  1. Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots.
  2. Repot in a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil.
  3. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant back in bright, indirect light.