Best Hoya Varieties for Every Home: Beginner’s Guide

Are you new to hoyas and thinking which hoya varieties are the best for newbies? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. And, hey, I get it. You’re desperate to bring a lush, green vibe into your home but worry that your “black thumb” might ruin the fun. Don’t sweat it—I’ve been there, too! Luckily, Hoyas are the perfect solution for anyone dreaming of indoor jungles without the high-maintenance drama.

Table of Contents

• What Are Hoya Plants
• How to Identify Hoya Varieties
• Why Choose Hoyas for Your Home?
• Are Hoya Plants Easy for Beginners to Care for?
• Quick Guide to Hoya Plant Care
• How to Pick the Right Hoya for You
• Easy Hoya Varieties to Grow Indoors
• Hoya Varieties of the Carnosa Species
• Other Hoya Varieties That Are Easy to Grow
• Easiest Hoya Varieties for Hanging Baskets
• Compact Hoyas for Small Spaces
• Compact Hoyas for Small Spaces

That’s why I’ve created this post on “hoya varieties for beginners” and uncovered 19 different hoya species that are easy to care for at home. So, read on to discover the easiest varieties to start your indoor jungle.

Feeling confident and want to expand your hoya indoor plant collection? Head to our Types of Hoyas guide to explore rare and collector-worthy plants.

What Are Hoya Plants?

Known as wax plants for their glossy leaves and fragrant star-shaped flowers, Hoyas are a fan favorite among plant lovers. The Royal Horticultural Society says that there are over 600 hoya varieties—so, a perfect one for every space, style, and skill level. Whether you’re a beginner, a busy bee, or a seasoned plant parent, these beauties will thrive in your care—and make you look like a pro while doing it.

This isn’t just another list of plants. It’s a treasure map to some of the easiest and most breathtaking Hoyas you can grow at home. From cascading vines to compact showstoppers, we’ll explore the varieties that are as low-effort as they are stunning.

Ready to add some waxy magic to your home? Let’s dive into the world of Hoyas and find the one that’ll steal your heart. 🌿

How to Identify Hoya Varieties

Identifying Hoya varieties requires examining their distinctive characteristics. Most Hoya cultivars have waxy leaves arranged in opposite pairs. These grow on trailing or climbing vines. Hoya varieties are also identified by their unique star-shaped flowers with enchanting fragrances. Check for variations in leaf shape, size, variegation, and color among Hoya varieties.

Why Choose Hoyas for Your Home?

Hoyas are the perfect houseplants for modern living. They thrive in bright, indirect light, tolerate occasional neglect, and bring a unique blend of lush greenery and fragrant blooms. Plus, they’re champions of air purification. As my friend Sarah says, “My Hoya Australis feels like a breath of fresh air in my tiny apartment!”

Are Hoya Plants Easy for Beginners to Care for?

Hoyas are ideal indoor plants for beginners due to their resilience and low maintenance. They thrive in bright, indirect light and infrequent watering. Thanks to their succulent, waxy foliage, they don’t have high watering demands. Additionally, they adapt easily to indoor climates and thrive in typical household humidity levels.

Quick Guide to Hoya Plant Care

Care Aspect	Recommendation
Light	Bright, indirect sunlight; avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
Watering	Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry; avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
Soil	Well-draining mix (e.g., cactus or orchid mix) with added perlite for aeration.
Humidity	Prefers moderate to high humidity (40-60%); mist occasionally or use a pebble tray.
Temperature	Thrives in 60-85°F (15-29°C); avoid sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizer	Feed monthly during the growing season (spring/summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Repotting	Repot every 2-3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; Hoyas like being root-bound.
Pruning	Prune lightly to maintain shape, but avoid cutting peduncles (where flowers form).
Propagation	Easily propagated from stem cuttings in water, soil, or sphagnum moss.

Are you looking for detailed information on how to look after your first hoya plant? If so, check out my article: The ultimate guide to Hoya plant care.

How to Pick the Right Hoya for You

With over 600 species and countless hybrids, choosing the right Hoya can feel like picking a dessert at a fancy buffet. Here are some tips:

• Space constraints? Opt for compact varieties like Hoya Curtisii or Hoya Bella.
• Love trailing vines? Go for Hoya Linearis or Hoya Pubicalyx.
• Looking for drama? Try Hoya Carnosa ‘Compacta’ (aka Hindu Rope Plant) for its quirky curled leaves.

Easy Hoya Varieties to Grow Indoors

Hoyas are champions of low-maintenance beauty, and these varieties prove it. They’re perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a plant that thrives with minimal fuss.

Many Hoya types are easy-care beginner house plants. The most popular Hoya plants to start with is the Hoya carnosa Krimson Queen variety, with its attractive variegated foliage. Also, other tropical Hoya carnosa cultivars are easy to care for. These vining plants thrive in bright light with minimal watering.

Hoya Varieties of the Carnosa Species

Types of Hoya carnosa plants are some of the most popular tropical indoor plants. These Hoya varieties have attractive foliage and beautiful, fragrant flowers. They also have low maintenance requirements. There are several varieties of Hoya carnosa, each with its own unique characteristics.

Hoya Carnosa ‘Krimson Queen’

The Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Queen’ cultivar is a stunning variety of Hoya that is easy for beginners. The wax plant is identified by its thick, waxy leaves and tricolor variegation. The pointed, lanceolate leaves are green, pink, and creamy white. The flowers on ‘Krimson Queen’ are umbels of pink, star-shaped flowers.

When I first saw this beauty in a friend’s living room, I couldn’t stop staring. Now it’s a centerpiece in my home, too.

The Hoya carnosa variety ‘Krimson Queen’ can grow 5 to 6.5 feet (1.5 to 2 m) indoors. To care for the Hoya, you should place it in bright, indirect sunlight. It also needs regular watering during the growing season to keep the potting soil moist without being waterlogged.

Hoya carnosa Krimson Queen features

• Hoya leaf identification: Lance-shaped, tricolor variegated green leaves with pink and creamy-white patterns
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped pink flowers with red centers
• Standout feature: Stunning tri-colored leaves in pink, green, and cream.
• Care Tip: Loves bright, indirect light. Water sparingly—it prefers its soil slightly dry.

Hoya Carnosa ‘Compacta’

The Hoya carnosa Compacta is one of the most popular Hoya varieties. This Hoya variety has thick, twisted, and contorted leaves, giving it a unique appearance that inspires awe. Its blooms are small, pink, red, purple, or with umbels, with 25-40 flowers per cluster. It has minimal care requirements.

Also called the Hindu Rope Plant or Krinkle Kurl, the ‘Compacta’ Hoya variety tolerates lower light conditions than other Hoya varieties. This makes it an ideal choice for indoor spaces with less sunlight. It can also handle some neglect and go without water for longer periods.

However, it is important to ensure the potting soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. It’s also great for hanging baskets. Mia from Instagram shares, ““My Hindu Rope has grown so much, it’s now trailing down my bookshelf. It’s the plant everyone asks about.”

Hoya carnosa ‘Compacta’ features

• Care Tip: Thrives in medium to bright light. Be careful not to overwater—it’s sensitive to soggy soil
• Hoya leaf identification: Twisted, curled leaves growing tightly on long stems
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, and red
• What makes it special: Its twisted, curling leaves give it an eye-catching, sculptural quality

Buy hoyas from my Etsy store:

Hoya Carnosa ‘Krimson Princess’

The H. carnosa Krimson Princess is a stunning cultivar of the Hoya carnosa species. It is known for its beautiful green, pink, and cream variegated leaves. It is also identified by its pink star-shaped flowers with dark red centers. This Hoya plant has basic care needs and is ideal for starting a Hoya collection.

Also known as the variegated wax plant, the ‘Krimson Princess’ is a rewarding plant to care for due to its unique and eye-catching foliage. The things it dislikes are overwatering and low-medium light. If you avoid these conditions, your H. carnosa variety will thrive.

A plant lover on a Hoya Facebook group shared, “My Krimson Princess is like a living piece of art—its pink-tinged leaves catch everyone’s eye! Just be careful not to overwater, or the variegation fades,”

Hoya Krimson Princess features

• Hoya leaf identification: Variegated pink leaves with shades of green and cream along the margins.
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of small, star-shaped pink flowers
• Feature: The Hoya Krimson Princess is known for its striking green leaves with creamy white centers and pink accents, making it a bold and colorful addition to any indoor plant collection.
• Care Tip: Place in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its vibrant variegation. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering, as it dislikes overwatering.

Hoya Carnosa ‘Exotica’

The Hoya carnosa ‘Exotica’ is a stunning and unique type of Hoya plant with variegated leaves. The vining plant is characterized by its large, lance-shaped, elongated leaves with distinctive variegation—dark green with irregular creamy white and pink patches. This variety also produces clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers in shades of pink and white.

Ideal for beginners, the ‘Exotica’ Hoya variety is relatively easy to care for. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and only requires water when the top 1″ (2.5 cm) layer of soil has dried. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

This type of Hoya is a great choice to add a touch of exotic beauty and clusters of flowers to your indoor plant collection.

Hoya carnosa Exotica features

• Hoya leaf identification: Lance-shaped, variegated green leaves with patches of creamy white and pink
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink and white
• Why it’s dramatic: Large, variegated leaves in cream and pink make it a bold addition.
• Care Tip: Needs bright, indirect light and soil that dries slightly between waterings.

Hoya Carnosa ‘Argentea Picta’

Hoya carnosa’ Argentea Picta’ is a popular cultivar known for its striking silver, green, and cream variegated leaves. This hoya plant is a trailing plant that can grow 5 to 6 feet (1.5 – 1.8 m) long. It has more rounded leaves than many other Hoya plants. It’s ideal for hanging baskets or trailing down from shelves.

To care for the ‘Argentea Picta,’ you should place it in bright, indirect sunlight. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing the top 1″ (2.5 cm) inch of potting soil to become dry before watering again. Remember, too overwatering leads to root rot, so getting a balance with watering sessions is important.

This hoya variety also requires a humid environment, so misting the leaves or placing it on a tray filled with water and pebbles can create a more favorable environment. With proper care, the ‘Argentea Picta’ can be a gorgeous houseplant in your indoor plant collection.

Hoya carnosa ‘Argentea Picta’ features

• Hoya leaf identification: Variegated leaves with silver markings
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped flowers
• Why it’s elegant: Silvery-green variegated leaves shimmer in the light.
• Care Tip: Bright, indirect light and moderate watering are key.

Hoya Carnosa ‘Compacta’

The Hoya carnosa Compacta is one of the most popular Hoya varieties. This Hoya plant has thick, twisted, and contorted leaves, giving it a unique appearance that inspires awe. Its blooms are small pink, red, purple, or with umbels with 25-40 flowers per cluster. It has minimal care requirements.

Also called the Hindu Rope Plant or Krinkle Kurl, the ‘Compacta’ Hoya variety tolerates lower light conditions than other Hoya plants. This makes it an ideal choice for indoor spaces with less sunlight. It can also handle some neglect and go without water for longer periods.

However, it is important to ensure the potting soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. It’s also great for hanging baskets. Mia from Instagram shares, “My Hindu Rope has grown so much, it’s now trailing down my bookshelf. It’s the plant everyone asks about.”

Hoya carnosa ‘Compacta’ features

• Hoya leaf identification: Twisted, curled leaves growing tightly on long stems
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, and red
• What makes it special: Its twisted, curling leaves give it an eye-catching, sculptural quality
• Care Tip: Thrives in medium to bright light. Be careful not to overwater—it’s sensitive to soggy soil

Other Hoya Varieties That Are Easy to Grow

Hoya Carnosa ‘Freckles’

Hoya carnosa ‘Freckles’ is a striking cultivar known for distinctive freckle-like creamy spots on the emerald-green foliage. Its variegated green and oval leaves have a distinctive point. The ‘Freckles’ hoya plant’s flowers are waxy white, star-shaped blooms with pink centers and up to 25 flowers per umbel. 

This Hoya variety is relatively compact, growing to around 1-2 feet (30 to 60 cm) in height. It performs best in bright, indirect sunlight and requires well-draining soil that dries out between watering. ‘Freckles’ is a great choice for upstart plant enthusiasts looking to add a special Hoya plant collection.

Jenna shared on a houseplant forum, “Freckles is the star of my kitchen window—its leaves sparkle in the sunlight, and the flowers smell like sweet candy!”

Hoya carnosa ‘Freckles’ features

• Hoya leaf identification: Oval to lance-shaped leaves spattered with silvery speckles
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped pinkish-white flowers with plum-colored centers
• Best feature: This stunning cultivar is distinguished by its emerald-green leaves spattered with silvery speckles, giving it a “freckled” appearance. It blooms with waxy white, star-shaped flowers that have pink centers, creating a beautiful contrast.
• Care Tip: Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates medium light. Let the top inch of soil dry between waterings to avoid overwatering

Hoya Kerrii

Hoya kerrii—Sweetheart Hoya or Heart-Leaf Hoya—is a popular Hoya plant with heart-shaped leaves. This Hoya variety is a slow-growing variety that thrives in several hours of direct sunlight daily. The attractive ‘Valentine Hoya’ blooms occasionally with star-shaped white flowers. It is an excellent choice for your prized plant collection and grows well as a hanging plant.

Hoya kerrii plant care involves growing it in well-draining soil and giving it plenty of water when the soil is dry. It also benefits from occasional fertilization during the growing season. With proper care, Hoya kerrii can be a long-lasting and beautiful addition to your indoor plant collection.

Most people recognize Hoya varieties “Kerrii” as a single-leaf plant sold in pots before Valentine’s Day. Alex on Reddit shared, “My Kerrii is a slow but steady grower—it’s like the turtle of my plant family but well worth the wait. But don’t buy a single-leaf Hoya kerrii as it won’t root and you’ll be disappointed.”

Hoya kerrii features

• Hoya leaf identification: Large, heart-shaped leaves growing on robust vines
• Hoya flowers: Infrequently produces star-shaped, white, and pink flowers in dangling umbels
• Why it’s unique: Heart-shaped leaves make it a Valentine’s favorite!
• Care Tip: Slow-growing, but loves warmth and bright, indirect light.

Hoya Obovata

Hoya obovata is one of the most popular Hoya varieties known for its thick, waxy leaves and clusters of star-shaped, white flowers. Compared to other Hoya plants, this plant has rounder leaves with a deep green color with silver flecks. The flowers grow in small clusters and have a sweet fragrance. 

Caring for this trailing plant is easy. The Hoya obovata thrives in bright, indirect light and requires regular watering. The time to water the plant is when the top one inch of soil is dry. With proper care, this Hoya species can add a touch of natural beauty to any indoor space.

From all the hoyas on the list, the Hoya obovate requires bright light. Sarah, on a plant forum, pointed out, “I moved my Obovata closer to a sunny window, and it rewarded me with its first blooms!”

Hoya obovata features

• Hoya leaf identification: Large oval-shaped dark green succulent leaves
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped flowers that bloom in bright sunlight
• Why you’ll love it: Round, deep green leaves with silver flecks that are easy to grow
• Care Tip: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and keep it in bright light

Hoya Rebecca

The Hoya Rebecca is a popular Hoya cultivar with clusters of star-shaped pink to crimson flowers and pointed, oval leaves. The spectacular aromatic flowers contrast nicely with vibrant green foliage with an attractive reddish hue when growing in full sun. The flower scent is described as sweet and tropical.

Regarding care, the Hoya ‘Rebecca’ requires bright indirect sunlight to thrive. It is important to avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves of this fast-growing hoya plant to burn. As with all types of Hoyas, water the plant sparingly, allowing the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings. 

The Hoya ‘Rebecca’ variety is a relatively low-maintenance plant, making it an ideal starter plant for beginners or those with busy schedules.. This hoya variety can add a burst of color and fragrance to any indoor space with proper care. As for it’s beauty, Maria on a plant forum commented, “Rebecca’s pink flowers are the prettiest thing in my collection—it thrives in bright, filtered light.”

Hoya ‘Rebecca’ features

• Hoya leaf identification: Bright green, slender lanceolate leaves with reddish blushing
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped, fuzzy pink flowers with a sweet fragrance
• Why it’s a showstopper: Crimson-pink flowers and foliage that blushes in full sun
• Care Tip: Keep the soil slightly dry and avoid harsh sunlight

Hoya Multiflora

Hoya multiflora is an easy-to-grow Hoya variety that houseplant collectors highly prize. Its identifying features are abundant and fragrant white flowers that bloom several times a year and large, glossy leaves with pronounced veining patterns. It is a vigorous grower with trailing vines, ideal for trellises or hanging baskets.

Also called Shooting Star Hoya, the plant performs well when it gets direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon. To avoid “sun-stressing” Hoyas, protect it from midday sunshine. This Hoya species is generally an easy-to-care-for plant, making a stunning addition to any indoor plant collection.

Hoya multiflora features

• Hoya leaf identification: Long, lanceolate leaves up to 7 inches (18 cm) long
• Hoya flowers: Umbels of small, star-shaped flowers with up to 40 flowers per inflorescence (cluster)
• Why it’s striking: Star-shaped white flowers bloom year-round under the right conditions.
• Care Tip: Bright, indirect light and evenly moist soil keep it thriving

Hoya Shepherdii

Hoya shepherdii is one of the unusual Hoya varieties with long green leaves that resemble string beans. The leaves have a vibrant green color and have a characteristic shiny, waxy texture. Its bushy green foliage contrasts well with the rounded clusters of star-shaped white flowers.

Hoya shepherdii is a relatively easy plant to care for when growing in well-drained soil. Grow it in bright, filtered sunlight to avoid sun-stressing the plant. Use water at room temperature, and the time to water it is when the top half of the potting mix is dry.

This Hoya variety is great for hanging baskets or trailing over shelves, and its unique foliage adds a touch of freshness to any space. Megan on Instagram wrote, “I love how Shepherdii’s leaves look like green beans dangling over the pot—it’s such a conversation starter.”

Hoya shepherdii features

• Hoya leaf identification: Long, slender foliage that looks like clusters for trailing green beans
• Hoya flowers: Small inflorescences of star-shaped flowers that bloom in summer
• Why it’s fun: Long, slender leaves resemble green beans and trail beautifully in hanging pots.
• Care Tip: Enjoys filtered light and slightly dry soil between waterings.

Hoya Wayetii

Hoya wayetii is a tropical plant with attractive elongated, lance-shaped leaves. In bright sunshine, the long bean-like leaves have a reddish hue growing in tumbling vines, adding to the plant’s attractiveness. Under ideal conditions, the Hoya blooms with sweet-smelling purple flowers. It is a trailing succulent plant growing up to 4 feet (1.2 m) long.

Other varieties of Hoya wayetii include the following: 

• Hoya wayetii ‘Variegata’ with dark green linear leave with pink and creamy yellow variegation
• Hoya wayetii ‘Tricolor’ with long, slender yellowish-green leaves and dark green margins

Hoya wayetii features

• Hoya leaf identification: Lance-shaped leaves on trailing creating a bushy appearance
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of star-shaped pink or purple flowers
• Why it’s attractive: Long, narrow leaves that blush pink under bright light and fragrant purple flowers
• Care Tip: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight and moderate watering

Hoya Retusa

Hoya retusa is one of the most unusual Hoya varieties that is easy for beginners to grow indoors. The unique plant has grass-like, succulent leaves with rounded tips. It blooms with singular white flowers with contrasting red centers. The shade-loving Hoya also performs well in low-light environments. 

Hoya retusa is a trailing tropical plant with dangling stems growing up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) long. A defining characteristic is its ability to produce tiny, white, star-shaped flowers emerging from the leaf axils. These delicate blooms have a mild fragrance and can add beauty and color to your indoor garden.

When caring for Hoya retusa, it is important to plant it in soil that drains well to avoid root rot. Sam, on a Hoya Facebook group, commented, “It’s quirky, but don’t overwater it—it hates wet feet.” He suggested planting it in a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for succulents or cacti. Regular pruning can help maintain the plant’s shape and promote healthy growth.

Hoya retusa features

• Hoya leaf identification: Elongated round-tipped leaves that look like clusters of grassy foliage growing on long stems hanging downward
• Hoya flowers: Small star-shaped flowers with five creamy-white petals and a red center
• Why it’s unusual: Grass-like, succulent leaves and tiny white blooms give it a minimalist appeal
• Care Tip: Tolerates low light but grows better in bright, indirect sunlight

Easiest Hoya Varieties for Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets and Hoyas are a match made in plant heaven. With their trailing vines and delicate flowers, these Hoyas are perfect for creating an enchanting vertical garden. If you’re looking for low-maintenance showstoppers, these are the ones to try.

Hoya Linearis

Hoya linearis is a unique and delicate type of Hoya plant, known for its long, trailing stems and thin, linear leaves. It has beautiful clusters of creamy white lemon-scented flowers. Its thin, slender leaves measure up to 2.3 inches (6 cm) long, and trailing stems grow 3 feet (0.9 m) long. 

Unlike other Hoyas, this variety does not have the iconic waxy texture on its foliage. Instead, its leaves are thin and needle-like, giving it a different aesthetic appeal. The Hoya linearis is a popular choice for hanging planters or as a trailing plant on shelves or windowsills. It’s also ridiculously easy to care for.

A hoya enthusiast shared online, “When I first hung my Hoya Linearis by a sunny window, it transformed my plain living room corner into a boho paradise. A fellow plant parent once said, “It’s like having green waterfalls indoors,” and I couldn’t agree more!” 

Hoya linearis features

• Hoya leaf identification: Long, trailing, flexible stems 3 feet (0.9 m) long with slender leaves
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that bloom for ten to 14 days
• Why it’s perfect for hanging baskets: Its long, needle-like leaves cascade beautifully, creating a soft, feathery effect.
• Care Tip: Place it in bright, indirect light and keep the soil slightly moist—but never soggy. It loves humidity, so mist it occasionally or use a humidifier

Hoya Pubicalyx

Hoya pubicalyx is one of the most popular varieties of vining Hoyas prized for its deep green, glossy, elliptical leaves with silver splatters. Hoya is known for its spectacular dark-colored flowers that are chocolatey-brown with pink centers. The low-care Hoya plant can handle low-light conditions, which makes it ideal for indoor spaces.

The clusters of Hoya pubicalyx porcelain flowers are very fragrant and often have a sweet, honey-like scent. Despite its lush, tropical appearance, the Hoya is a relatively easy plant to care for. All you need is medium to bright, indirect sunlight and water when the soil dries. 

This Hoya species is a great choice for hanging baskets or trellises, as its vines can grow long. It is also a popular choice for indoor gardens and can be grown successfully in various climates. My Pubicalyx flowers smell like candy—I could sniff them all day,” shared a Reddit user in a plant group.

Hoya pubicalyx features

• Hoya leaf identification: Dark green lanceolate leaves covered in silvery speckles
• Hoya flowers: Purple or maroon flowers
• Why it’s a favorite: Its glossy, dark green leaves with silver flecks are paired with fragrant, deep pink flowers.
• Care Tip: Thrives in medium to bright light and prefers its soil to dry out between waterings

Hoya Australis

Hoya australis is a popular species of easy-care Hoya for beginners. It’s known for its beautiful waxy oval leaves and fragrant, star-shaped white flower clusters. This evergreen vining plant grows 13 to 33 ft. (4 to 10 m) long, and its succulent leaves measure up to 2.3 inches (6 cm) long. 

Native to Australia, this plant is often called the “Common Waxflower” or “Waxvine.” The flowers are typically white or cream-colored, with a sweet and pleasant fragrance.

Hoya australis is easy to care for. Place it in bright, direct sunlight where it can grow on trellises. The best location is a south or west-facing window, so it gets plenty of light. Occasionally, give it plenty of water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Hoya australis features

• Hoya leaf identification: Elongated leaves in an ovate or elliptical shape
• Hoya flowers: Fragrant white flowers growing in umbellate clusters, with each flower having five thick, waxy petals forming a star shape
• Why it’s perfect for hanging baskets: Its thick, oval leaves and trailing vines grow quickly, making it ideal for filling up space in no time.
• Care Tip: Place it near a south-facing window, and let the soil dry out between waterings.

Compact Hoyas for Small Spaces

Short on space but big on greenery dreams? Compact Hoyas are the perfect solution. These little gems bring all the beauty and charm of their larger cousins but in a size that’s tailor-made for small apartments, desks, or cozy shelves.

Hoya Bella

Hoya Bella—also known as the miniature wax plant—is a popular variety of Hoya due to its small and compact size. It features clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers with a central red crown. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are pointed and slightly curled.

Hoya Bella is a low-maintenance plant that tolerates various light conditions, making it suitable for various indoor environments. My Hoya Bella lives on my nightstand, and its fragrant blooms have become my favorite morning surprise. A friend once called it “the dainty diva,” and honestly, it fits!

To care for the Hoya plant, place it in bright, indirect light, but it can also thrive in lower light conditions. As with most Hoya plants, only water the potting mix when partially dried to avoid wet soil and root rot. This easy-to-care-for plant adds beauty to any home or office space.

Hoya Bella features

• Hoya leaf identification: Lance-shaped, variegated green leaves with patches of creamy white and pink
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink and white
• Why it’s great for small spaces: Its petite size and elegant, arching stems make it perfect for tabletops or small planters. The glossy leaves and clusters of white star-shaped flowers bring a touch of tropical beauty without taking over your space.
• Care Tip: Hoya Bella loves bright, indirect light and slightly moist soil. Don’t let it dry out completely, but avoid soggy roots.

Hoya Mathilde

Hoya ‘Mathilde’ is one of the easy-grow Hoya varieties popular for its small, oval-shaped waxy leaves and beautiful clusters of star-shaped, fuzzy, white, and pink flowers. This Hoya variety has slightly fuzzy leaves on the underside, adding to the plant’s charm. Also, the small leaves have silver variegation or speckles.

The flowers of Hoya Mathilde are typically pink or white, and they have a sweet fragrance that is particularly strong at night.

Regarding care, Hoya Mathilde prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate lower light conditions. Allowing the soil to dry out partly between waterings is crucial—over-watering can cause root rot. The good news? They can go for extended periods without watering. Kelly on Reddit shared, ““Mathilde forgives me every time I forget to water—it’s the most forgiving plant in my collection.”

This Hoya variety is a relatively compact plant you can grow as a hanging plant or in a pot on a shelf or tabletop. With proper care, Hoya Mathilde can be a delightful addition to any indoor plant collection.

Hoya ‘Mathilde’ features

• Hoya leaf identification: Dark green, oval, waxy leaves with fuzzy undersides
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of white star-shaped flowers
• What makes it charming: Small, waxy leaves with silver variegation and sweet-smelling blooms.
• Care Tip: Thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil

Hoya Curtisii

Hoya curtisii is a popular Hoya variety known for its small, heart-shaped leaves and unique veining patterns. The leaves are dark green and often covered in tiny silver specks. This Hoya species produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are pale yellow in color.

Hoya curtisii is one of the easiest hoyas with heart-shaped leaves to care for. This relatively low-maintenance plant grows exceedingly well indoors and outdoors (in tropical climates). It requires bright, indirect light and prefers to be kept in well-draining soil. It’s also vital to keep it away from drafty windows.

About the Hoya curtisii, Emily on a plant forum shared, “I love how my Curtisii cascades down my bookshelf—it’s like having a little waterfall of green hearts. I’ve got a tiny apartment, and this hoya fits perfectly”

Hoya curtisii features

• Hoya leaf identification: Small, round gray-green leaves in the shape of a heart
• Hoya flowers: Clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers that bloom in bright sunlight
• Why it’s perfect for small spaces: With its tiny, heart-shaped leaves and delicate trailing vines, Hoya Curtisii fits beautifully in hanging planters or small pots on shelves.
• Care Tip: Bright, indirect light and a bit of humidity are its happy place. Water when the top inch of soil dries out.

Best Hoya Varieties for Beginners: FAQs

What is the easiest Hoya plant to grow?

Many beginners start with Hoya Carnosa or Hoya Australis. They’re forgiving, adapt to low light, and don’t need constant watering. These varieties are known for being tough and easygoing indoors.

Can I grow a Hoya plant if I have no plant experience?

Absolutely! Hoyas are beginner-friendly. Choose a variety like Hoya Pubicalyx or Hoya Krimson Princess and follow a simple care routine—indirect light, minimal water, and patience.

Do Hoyas need a lot of sunlight?

Hoyas like bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. For beginners, placing your hoya near an east-facing window is a safe bet.

What kind of pots are best for indoor Hoyas?

Use breathable pots with drainage holes. Beginners often succeed with terracotta or ceramic pots filled with chunky, well-draining soil to avoid overwatering issues.

How often should I water my Hoya?

Wait until the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Hoyas don’t like soggy roots. New plant parents often do best by watering every 10–14 days depending on humidity and light.

Which Hoya is best for small spaces?

Compact varieties like Hoya Bella or Hoya Retusa are great for shelves and hanging baskets. They don’t sprawl too far and thrive in cozy spaces.

My Thoughts on Easy Grow Hoya Varieties

Hoyas are the perfect blend of beauty and resilience, making them ideal for any plant lover. Their unique leaves and fragrant blooms never fail to captivate, and the patience they teach is rewarded with stunning displays. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector, adding a Hoya to your home is a decision you won’t regret!