Hoya Krimson Princess Care Guide: Top Expert Advice

The Hoya Krimson Princess is one of those indoor plants that stops you in your tracks. With creamy-white leaf margins, pink variegation, and glossy green leaves that twist like ribbons, it’s easy to see why this wax plant is a favorite among collectors. And yes—it really can bloom fragrant flowers indoors.

Krimson Princess is one of the most popular variegated hoyas. If you’d like to explore other cultivars, see our guide to different types of Hoyas.

The Hoya Krimson Princess, scientifically known as Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Princess,’ is a stunning variegated cultivar of the wax plant family. Also referred to as the porcelain flower, wax flower, Crimson Princess, or Hoya ‘Tricolor,’ this tropical vining plant is celebrated for its lush foliage and sweetly scented, star-shaped blooms.

One enthusiast shared on r/houseplants, “This plant brightens my space like no other—those pink hues are just magical.” Another commented, “It’s tough, forgiving, and absolutely gorgeous. My favorite Hoya by far!” These glowing reviews underscore why it’s a top choice for indoor gardeners.

If you’re just starting your plant journey, this might feel like a bold choice. You might be wondering: Does it need bright light or filtered light? How do I tell if it’s getting too much direct sunlight? What kind of potting mix is best for these vining plants?

Trust me—this isn’t just another pretty leaf. The Krimson Princess is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in well-draining soil, basks near a bright window, and rewards the patient grower with lush growth and sweet surprises. But like most beautiful things, she has her quirks—and that’s where proper care makes all the difference.

Quick Care Snapshot

Here’s a handy visual if you just need the basics. Keep scrolling for detailed tips on each step.

Botanists say the Hoya carnosa is native to the lush tropical forests of Southeast Asia and Australia. The extensive Hoya genus in the family Apocynaceae contains hundreds of cultivars. Its natural habitat is in tropical forests as an understory vining plant. Therefore, Hoya Krimson Princess care requires mimicking its native environment. Think bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, and high humidity.

The Hoya Krimson Princess thrives in specific growing conditions. These include bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and proper watering techniques. Keep the plant in average household temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15.5°C–29°C). For blooming, the Krimson Princess has high humidity requirements and bright light. Protect it from direct sunlight.

You can provide extra humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray with some water. Just ensure the tropical roots are not in constant contact with the water.

Krimson Princess Hoya Identification

To identify the type of Hoya, look for the plant’s unique attributes. Krimson Princess Hoya identification features are its variegated leaves. The lance-shaped waxy leaves have emerald-green margins with yellow or pink patches in the center. Also, look for the clusters of star-shaped flowers.

Krimson Princess Hoya Leaves

The Krimson Princess Hoya leaves are the star of the show! The tropical plant flaunts thick, waxy leaves with stunning tricolor variegation—vibrant green bordered by creamy white or soft pink tones running through the center. Their succulent-like texture helps the plant retain moisture, giving it impressive drought tolerance. This striking foliage isn’t just beautiful—it’s also a testament to the plant’s resilience.

The Krimson Princess hoya is often confused with the Krimson Queen. Our article Hoya Krimson Queen Care & Identification Guide helps you tell the two hoya plants apart.

What is the Hoya Princess growth rate?

The Krimson Princess Hoya grows fastest in bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and the occasional boost from a liquid houseplant fertilizer. In ideal conditions, it can sprout a few new leaves each month during the growing season. However, overwatering is its nemesis, leading to root rot and stunted growth. With patience and consistent care, this hardy beauty will flourish, eventually outgrowing its pot and rewarding you with its lush, cascading vines.

Both cultivars—Hoya Princess and Hoya Queen—have foliage with striking, contrasting patterns. They offer a splendid three-color display on the tropical waxy leaves. Both hoya varieties have similar care requirements—bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and watering only when the top inch of soil is dry.

Selecting between the Krimson Queen and Krimson Princess boils down to personal preference for leaf variegation. Regardless of choice, with proper care, either plant is a captivating addition to an indoor garden space.

If the pink fades quickly, it’s usually a sign of lower light or maturing growth. For a closer look at variegation patterns, see our guide to Hoya leaf identification.

Krimson Princess Hoya Flowers Overview

Flowers on the Krimson Princess Hoya are identified by their star shape with pink margins and a deep pink center. The hoya flowers grow in umbrella-like clusters called umbels. Additionally, the starry flowers produce a slight fragrance reminiscent of chocolate.

Krimson Princess usually flowers after 2–3 years. Look for peduncles — the stubby stems that rebloom every year. Flowers are pink-white clusters with a sweet fragrance.”

👉 “Want detailed tips on bloom triggers and peduncle care? See our full guide to Hoya Krimson Princess flowers.”

Interested in how other types of hoyas bloom? Check out my article on how to identify hoyas plants by their flowers.

Light Requirements for Hoya Krimson Princess

Choose a cozy spot in your home where your hoya plant can soak up plenty of indirect light—this is key for helping it thrive and bloom beautifully! Rooms with east or west-facing windows are perfect for this. Your plant will love the bright light if you have a sunny window. Just keep in mind that you should use a sheer curtain for those south-facing windows to protect them from too much direct sunlight. Your Hoya will thank you for it!

Remember, overexposure to direct light can cause wilted leaves and yellow foliage. In contrast, dimly lit areas may reduce variegation and cause leggy growth with few leaves on the stems. Therefore, maintain a balance for this porcelain flower to thrive.

Best Locations For Growing Hoya Krimson Princess

The Hoya Krimson Princess is a stunning variegated plant with green, yellow, and pink foliage. To enjoy its splendor, placing it in the right location is vital. Of course, the hoya plant is a resilient tropical houseplant suited for indoor environments. But to ensure its vibrant growth, certain locations are more favorable than others.

Best places to grow Hoya plants are the following:

Bright, indirect light areas: Place near an east or west-facing window where it can enjoy the morning or late afternoon sunlight. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch its waxy leaves.
High humidity rooms: Bathrooms or kitchens are ideal if they receive ample indirect light, can be ideal due to higher humidity.
Stable temperature spots: Locations with consistent warm temperatures, away from drafts or sudden temperature changes

You can grow the hoya plant outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 and 11. If you live in a temperate climate, you can put the potted Krimson Princess Hoya outside during summer in a shaded spot with indirect light. Another location is where it gets morning sun or dappled sunlight.

Ideas where to grow Hoya Krimson Princess indoors:

Living Room Statement: Perfect for living rooms to create a focal point with its cascading vines. Its ideal location is on a high shelf or in a hanging planter near a sunny window but out of direct sunlight. Let its colorful leaves drape down, adding a cozy, lush vibe to your space. One hoya enthusiast wrote, “Mine hangs in the corner of my living room, and it’s always a conversation starter!”
Bathroom Retreat: Bathrooms with natural light offer the perfect humidity boost. Position it on a windowsill or hang it by a frosted bathroom window to give it bright, filtered light and consistent humidity from steamy showers. Here’s what a hoya newbie wrote, “I put mine in the bathroom, and the combination of light and moisture made it bloom.”
Kitchen Charm: The vining stems and waxy leaves add greenery and take advantage of natural kitchen lighting and humidity. Place in a corner near a bright window with indirect light on top of a cabinet. Its leaves bring a refreshing contrast to the kitchen’s hard surfaces.
Bedroom Accent: Its soft variegation creates a calming, serene effect. However, you’ll need to ensure it gets enough light. So, place it on a dresser near a south-facing window with sheer curtains to filter light. Its elegant vines add tranquility to your personal retreat.

Optimal Watering Schedule for Hoya Krimson Princess

The Krimson Princess Hoya thrives when its soil dries out completely between waterings. To check, simply poke your finger into the top inch of soil—if it still feels damp, give it a few more days.

Hoyas prefer being slightly underwatered over overwatered. Too much moisture can lead to wilted leaves or root rot, as their sensitive roots aren’t fans of soggy conditions. Keep it dry, and your plant will thank you with vibrant, healthy growth.

Related: Learn about the Hoya carnosa compacta variegata.

How to Make the Best Potting Soil Mix for Krimson Princess Hoya

For your Krimson Princess Hoya, you’ll want to use a nice, well-draining, peat-based soil mix. You can either grab a soil blend designed specifically for succulents, or—if you’re feeling adventurous—whip up your own potting mix. Just combine peat moss with some fun ingredients like perlite, pumice, orchid bark, or coarse sand to create the perfect environment for your plant.

Here’s a potting soil medium that works for my hoyas:

Start with a base: Use a peat-based soil mix as the foundation.
Add drainage boosters: Mix in materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand for aeration.
Enhance texture: Include orchid bark for added chunkiness and air circulation.
Aim for balance: Ensure the mix is light, airy, and drains quickly to prevent waterlogging.
Test the mix: Water the soil to confirm it drains well without pooling. Adjust components if necessary.

Humidity & Temperature for the Hoya Krimson Princess

The Krimson Princess Hoya loves a humid environment, but it can also handle the typical humidity levels in most homes. If you notice that the air is a bit too dry for your plant, a humidifier can work wonders. Alternatively, you can create a cozy little setup by placing the plant’s pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, which will help boost the moisture in the air around it. Your Hoya will thank you for it.

The Krimson Princess Hoya thrives in warm, tropical-like temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). While it can tolerate brief cool spells, this plant needs protection from chilly drafts and sudden temperature shifts to stay healthy.

How to Fertilize Hoya Krimson Princess

Giving your Krimson Princess a little love in the form of liquid houseplant fertilizer can work wonders—especially in the vibrant spring and summer months. Just remember to dilute a balanced houseplant fertilizer to half the recommended strength. This way, you can help your plant thrive without overwhelming its roots or leaves with too many chemicals.

Hoya Krimson Princess Propagation Basics

Propagating your Hoya Krimson Princess is a rewarding way to expand your collection, share a piece of your plant with friends, or simply enjoy the magic of watching roots grow.

The easiest way to grow more Hoya Krimson Princess plants is to use stem cuttings. You can propagate them by preparing a healthy stem cutting and putting it in soil or water until roots appear. Within a few weeks, you’ll have a new healthy plant.

All you have to do is this:

Cut a vine with 2–3 nodes.
Let it callus for a few hours.
Root in water, perlite, or chunky soil.

For step-by-step instructions, check out our ultimate Hoya propagation guide to find various methods to grow new Krimson Princess plants from stem or leaf cuttings.

When to Repot Your Krimson Princess Hoya (And How to Do It)

Repotting your Krimson Princess Hoya ensures its roots stay healthy and the plant continues to thrive. Here’s when—and how—to give it a new home:

When to Repot

Every 2–3 Years: Hoyas like being slightly root-bound, so frequent repotting isn’t necessary. Repot only when roots outgrow the pot or begin circling the bottom.
Spring or Early Summer: This is the plant’s active growing season, making it the best time to transition to a larger pot.

Signs It’s Time to Repot

Roots poking out of drainage holes.
Stunted growth despite proper care.
Soil that dries out too quickly.

How to Repot Your Krimson Princess Hoya

Choose the Right Pot: Select a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has good drainage.
- Tip: Avoid oversized pots—they can retain too much moisture.
Prepare the Soil: Use a well-draining mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and orchid bark. This prevents waterlogging and mimics its natural environment.
Gently Remove the Plant: Tilt the pot and carefully slide it out to avoid damaging its delicate roots. If it’s stuck, gently loosen the sides with a butter knife.
Check and Prune the Roots: Inspect for damaged or rotting roots. Trim these with clean scissors to promote healthy regrowth.
Repot and Fill with Soil: Center the plant in the new pot, then fill in around the roots with fresh soil. Leave about an inch of space at the top for watering.
Water Lightly: Give it a gentle drink to settle the soil, but don’t soak it—let the roots adjust to their new home.

How to Choose the Perfect Pot for Your Hoya

The pot you choose for your Krimson Princess Hoya plays a vital role in its health and growth. Both terracotta and plastic pots have their perks and drawbacks, so picking the right one depends on your plant care style and environment.

Terracotta Pots

Pros: These classic pots are porous, allowing excess moisture to evaporate quickly. This helps prevent overwatering, which is ideal for Hoyas because they prefer drier roots. They’re also heavy, making them stable for trailing vines.
Cons: Terracotta dries out quickly, so you’ll need to water more often, especially in warm or dry climates. They can also crack in colder temperatures if left outside.

Plastic Pots

Pros: Lightweight and versatile, plastic pots keep moisture longer, making them a good choice for forgetful waterers. They’re also budget-friendly and come in various styles to suit your decor.
Cons: Plastic doesn’t breathe like terracotta, increasing the risk of waterlogging if drainage isn’t perfect. Additionally, lightweight pots may tip over as the plant grows larger.

Quick Tip: Always choose a pot with drainage holes or make holes in the bottom—regardless of the material. This ensures excess water escapes, keeping your Hoya’s roots healthy and happy throughout the year.

Aftercare Tips

Place the plant in bright, indirect light to help it acclimate.
Avoid fertilizing for the first month to prevent stress.

Here’s what one newbie plant parent shared online about their first time repotting a Hoya Krimson Princess: “I was nervous about repotting mine, but once I saw those roots thriving in their new pot, I knew it was worth it!”

With the right timing and gentle care, your Krimson Princess Hoya will flourish in its fresh space, ready to show off even more vibrant growth.

Is the Hoya Krimson Princess Safe for Pets?

According to top vets, the Hoya Krimson Princess is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet-friendly homes. While not harmful if ingested, its thick, waxy leaves may still cause mild digestive upset in pets if chewed. To be cautious, place it out of reach to avoid any curious nibbling.

🌿 Hoya Krimson Princess — FAQs

Why are my Hoya Krimson Princess leaves pink?

Pink comes from anthocyanin pigments triggered by bright light. New leaves blush, then mature to cream and green. If pink fades, increase bright, indirect light. See our Hoya leaf identification guide.

How much light does Hoya Krimson Princess need?

Give bright, indirect light. Morning sun is fine; harsh afternoon rays can scorch. Low light dulls variegation and pink tones. Grow lights work well a few inches above the canopy.

How do I get Hoya Krimson Princess to bloom?

Wait for maturity, usually 2–3 years. Keep peduncles, provide high light, warm temps, and let the plant stay slightly rootbound. For a full walkthrough, see Krimson Princess flowers.

How often should I water Hoya Krimson Princess?

Water when the top half of the mix is dry. In bright light and warmth, that’s roughly every 7–12 days. Use a chunky, fast-draining mix to avoid soggy roots.

Why is my Krimson Princess losing variegation?

Insufficient light causes greener growth. Move closer to bright, indirect light or add a grow light. Prune back green-heavy vines to encourage variegated shoots.

Is Hoya Krimson Princess safe for pets?

Yes. Hoya carnosa varieties are generally regarded as non-toxic. Still, discourage chewing and monitor sensitive pets. If pests appear, you can treat pests like mealybugs safely when used as directed.

Troubleshooting Growth Problems with Hoya Krimson Princess

Why are my Hoya Krimson Princess leaves turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Ensure proper watering, use well-draining soil, and consider adjusting your fertilization routine based on the plant’s needs.

How to fix stunted growth in Hoya Krimson Princess

Stunted growth is often due to insufficient light, overwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. Move your plant to a bright, indirect light spot, ensure well-draining soil, and feed it with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid overwatering and check roots for signs of rot.

Combatting common pests on the Hoya Krimson Princess

Even a healthy Krimson Princess can sometimes pick up hitchhikers like mealybugs or spider mites. You’ll spot cottony clumps on stems or fine webbing between leaves. Left alone, they’ll drain your plant’s energy and dull those pink leaves.

The easiest, plant-safe fix? Neem oil. A gentle spray suffocates pests without harming foliage, and it doubles as a preventative if you apply regularly. Here’s how I keep mine clean: mist the leaves, wipe them down, and repeat weekly until the bugs are gone.

For step-by-step instructions, see my full guide on using neem oil for houseplants.

Reviving droopy leaves on your Krimson Princess

Droopy leaves are usually caused by inconsistent watering or low humidity. Check the soil; if it’s dry, water thoroughly; if it’s soggy, let it dry out. Increase humidity with a humidifier or humidity tray, and avoid placing the plant in drafts or direct sunlight.

Start Growing Your Stunning Hoya Today

The Hoya Krimson Princess is more than just a plant—it’s a living work of art that transforms any space with its vibrant foliage and fragrant blooms. With the proper care, patience, and a touch of attention, this low-maintenance beauty will reward you year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a beginner looking for a showstopper, the Krimson Princess is ready to thrive in your home. Start growing yours today, and let its charm take center stage.

Hoya Krimson Princess: Complete Care & Growing Guide