Are all Hoya types suitable for beginners?

Not all. Hardy options like Hoya carnosa and Hoya kerrii are more forgiving. Check the specific light, humidity, and temperature needs of each type before buying.

Rare & Unusual Hoya Plants: Unique Houseplants for Collectors

Q: How can I get a Hoya to bloom?

Provide bright, indirect light, steady humidity, and let the potting mix partially dry between waterings. Avoid heavy pruning on old spurs because flowers return there yearly. Some Hoyas must mature for years before blooming.

Q: What is the best soil for Hoya plants?

Use a chunky, well-draining mix such as orchid bark, perlite, and peat or coco coir. Ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and promote long-term root health.

Q: Are Hoya plants toxic to cats and dogs?

No. Hoyas are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/hoya). Monitor pets around plants; waxy leaves may cause mild irritation in sensitive animals.

Q: Do rare and unusual Hoya plants bloom indoors?

Yes—given bright, filtered light, consistent humidity, warmth, and time to mature. Many unusual species need stable care and patience before producing their distinctive, often fragrant flowers.

Q: What is the fastest-growing Hoya plant?

Hoya carnosa cultivars are among the quickest indoors. In bright, indirect light and airy soil, they produce long trailing vines. Light pruning encourages a bushier shape.

Q: How many species of Hoya are there?

There are over 500 Hoya species described, but fewer than 100 are commonly grown as houseplants due to availability and cultural requirements.

Q: Where do Hoyas grow in the wild?

Hoyas are native to tropical Asia and Australia. Many are epiphytes that climb trees in rainforests, which is why they prefer airy, well-drained mixes and bright, filtered light indoors.

Are you a houseplant enthusiast looking for unusual Hoya plants to expand your indoor garden? If so, look no further. We will introduce you to 19 distinctive types of Hoya houseplants to add beauty and uniqueness to your houseplant collection.

Hoyas—also called wax plants—are prized for their stunning flowers, trailing vines, and tropical succulent leaves. Hoya plants come in various shapes, colors, forms, and sizes, making them a favorite among plant lovers. Hoyas bloom with clusters of star-shaped flowers in pink, white, red, and yellow shades.

Want to see every hoya variety in one place? Our complete Types of Hoyas guide covers 37 species and cultivars, with photos, care tips, and growth habits—so you can identify your plants and pick your next must-have.

If you’re just getting into Hoyas and adding them to your indoor garden, you may want to check out my article on the best hoya varieties for beginners. There, you’ll find hoyas known for their easy-care nature, thriving in various indoor conditions. Hoyas thrive in typical household humidity and only need occasional watering.

From the Hoya linearis with its long, thin leaves to the Hoya pubicalyx with its dark purple flowers, there’s a Hoya plant for every taste and style. And who cannot be charmed by the delightful Hoya sweetheart plant with its heart-shaped leaves?

This article is a guide to popular and unusual Hoya plant types. You find detailed descriptions, pictures, and care tips for the most popular Hoyas people grow as houseplants.

Please read on to discover 19 unusual Hoya types you can grow at home but will probably never find in your local plant store.

What Makes a Hoya Rare or Unusual?

Hoya is a type of evergreen plant that thrives in tropical or subtropical conditions. Hoya plants feature attractive waxy foliage, distinctive star-shaped flowers, and trailing or climbing vines. Belonging to the genus Hoya, the wax plants are popular houseplants due to their resilience and adaptability to indoor conditions. They are also called porcelain flower plants.

Hoya Krimson Princess — cream-edged leaves with blush-pink new growth.

The natural habitat of Hoya plants is the tropical regions of Southeast Asia. Outdoors, the slow-growing vines thrive in warm, humid climates. They grow epiphytically on trees, and their vining stems climb trees.

Unique Leaf Shapes & Textures

Some unusual Hoya plants break the mold with crinkled, heart-shaped, or needle-thin leaves. These unique textures aren’t just pretty—they help with water retention and light capture in native habitats. Collectors prize species like Hoya Macrophylla for their distinct leaf silhouettes that stand out from common, smooth-leafed varieties.

Rare Variegation Patterns

From creamy margins to splashes of pink, some rare Hoya plants develop unusual variegation with their patterns through genetic quirks and light exposure. These markings can change with the seasons, making each plant a living, evolving work of art. High-demand cultivars like Hoya macrophylla ‘Albomarginata’ often sell out quickly when fresh stock appears.

Limited Availability & Collector Demand

Some rare and unusual Hoya species grow in small wild populations or require slow propagation, keeping supply low. Rarity fuels demand, with certain cuttings fetching premium prices in collector circles. Trusted growers and specialist nurseries remain the best source for healthy, true-to-type plants in this category.

How Many Hoya Types Exist?

Over 500 species of Hoya plants exist. However, some estimate the number of Hoya types to be 600-700 species. Larger varieties of Hoyas can grow 3 to 60 ft. (0.9 to 18 m) outdoors. Some small leaf hoya varieties only grow 3 to 5 inches (7.6 to 13 cm) tall. Indoors,

Popular Hoya Types vs. Rare Varieties

The most popular Hoya varieties to grow as houseplants are Hoya Kerrii (Hoya heart plant), Hoya Carnosa, the Hindu Rope Plant (Hoya Compacta), and Hoya Publicalyx. These indoor tropical plants have waxy foliage, vibrant flowers, and attractive vining stems. Additionally, they are some of the easiest Hoya types to care for.

But don’t worry, in this article, you’ll not read about the varieties of hoyas we all know about. You’ll discover some of the most unique and unusual hoya types plants you’ll probably never see in your local plant shop, Home Depot, or Lowe’s.

Quick Care Tips for Rare Hoya Types

It is easy to care for most types of Hoya houseplants. The aim is to mimic a hoya’s natural habitat. Hoya plant care requires bright, indirect light and letting the potting soil partially dry out between watering. Also, maintain moderate levels of humidity. Use well-draining soil and inspect for pests regularly.

19 Rare & Unusual Hoya Types You’ll Want to Grow

Read on to discover identifying features, descriptions, and pictures of 48 different types of unusual Hoya plants.

Hoya Bilobata

Native to the Philippines, Hoya Bilobata is an evergreen vine that climbs up to 2 feet (0.6 m) tall. Identifying features of the unique Hoya species are its small lance-shaped leaves, 0.78” (2 cm) long, and clusters of yellow and pink flowers. The yellowish umbels emit a mild, sweet fragrance. Small, narrow leaves like these feature in our Hoya leaf identification guide.

Leaf characteristics: Broadly elliptic leaves with a thick and succulent-like glossy texture.
Flower feature: Clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, typically yellow or pink, with a sweet fragrance.
Light requirements: Hoya Bilobata thrives in bright, filtered light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Growth habits: This Hoya has a trailing growth habit, ideal for hanging baskets or trained on a trellis. It can also be grown as a compact tabletop plant.

Hoya Lauterbachii

One of the largest Hoya types is Hoya Lauterbachii. Also called the Giant Wax Plant, the huge Hoya is identified by its large cup-shaped red and yellow blooms measuring 3 inches (7.6 cm) across. The reddish-bronze flowers with yellow centers contrast with the plant’s velvety green leaves.

This rare and unusual Hoya is popular among houseplant enthusiasts due to its stunning foliage and huge flowers.

Leaf characteristics: Large lanceolate leaves with a thick, succulent, velvety, or fuzzy texture.
Flower feature: Huge clusters of highly fragrant cup-shaped bronze-red and yellow flowers.
Light requirements: Hoya Lauterbachii requires bright, indirect light, or partial sunlight.
Growth habits: This Hoya has a trailing growth habit and is often grown in hanging baskets or trained on a trellis.

Its massive blooms are a highlight in our guide to getting hoyas to bloom.

Hoya Sarawak

Hoya Sarawak is an unusual tropical houseplant with large heart-shaped green leaves and prominent veining patterns. The unique and rare Hoya species also has rounded clusters of beautiful pinkish-white flowers. In bright sunlight, the stunning foliage can turn reddish or pinkish shades. This Hoya latifolia subspecies blooms from spring through summer.

Hoya Sarwak blooms — large, speckled, star-shaped flowers.

Compare it with other big-leaf species in Types of Hoyas.

Leaf characteristics: Heart-shaped leaves with dark green color and silvery yellow veins.
Flower feature: Unbels of small, star-shaped creamy-white flowers with a smooth texture and sweet fragrance.
Light requirements: Hoya Sarawak prefers bright, indirect light but can suffer in low-light conditions.
Growth habits: A trailing growth habit, ideal for hanging baskets or trained on a trellis.

Hoya Nicholsoniae ‘New Guinea Ghost’

The Hoya New Guinea Ghost is an unusual type of Hoya plant with lanceolate leaves in stunning lavender to pink shades. The stunning foliage has a “ghostly appearance”—whitish, powdery leaves with a silver sheen. This fast-growing hoya blooms with clusters of yellowish or creamy-white flowers.

Hoya nicholsoniae — golden blooms with rosy pink centers.

This tropical houseplant is rare and hard to find compared to other Hoya types, making it a prized addition to any plant collection. More striking variegation patterns in our Hoya leaf identification resource.

Leaf characteristics: White, powdery leaves with a silver sheen.
Flower feature: Clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, typically greenish-yellow, yellow, or creamy-white in color.
Light requirements: Bright, diffused light is essential for optimal growth and leaf variegation.
Growth habits: The vining growth habit looks stunning, cascading from a trellis or hanging basket.

Hoya Brevialata

Hoya Brevialata is a unique and lesser-known Hoya type. The beautiful Hoya features small, pale green oval leaves that curl around the margins. This Hoya is one of the smallest-leaved wax plants. It also blooms with clusters of deep pink fragrant flowers with a sweet caramel-like aroma. The vining plant has a trailing growth habit.

This one hoya is trickier to care for. Looking for an easier option? Check out the wax plants in my article Hoya varieties for beginners.

Leaf characteristics: Small, blue-green or light green oval leaves with a glossy texture.
Flower feature: Clusters of star-shaped flowers on arching petioles in various pink and red shades
Light requirements: Hoya Brevialata prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Growth habits: Trailing growth habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets or allowing it to cascade over shelves or trellises.

Hoya Retusa

The Hoya Retusa is an interesting Hoya species with slender and elongated grass-like leaves. Unlike most Hoyas, the slender leaves of H. retusa cultivars are not succulent; instead, they are cylindrical like narrow tubes. The Hoya blooms are white star-shaped flowers with deep purple centers. Its long stems cascade over the pot edge.

Its thin, grassy leaves are explained in our Hoya leaf identification guide.

Leaf characteristics: Slender, elongated, narrow leaves with a cylindrical shape.
Flower feature: Clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers with purple or red centers.
Light requirements: This hoya type prefers bright, indirect light but also tolerates lower light conditions.
Growth habits: Hoya Retusa has a trailing growth habit and is well-suited for hanging baskets or trailing over the edge of shelves or trellises.

Hoya Multiflora (Shooting Star Hoya)

Hoya Multiflora is a beautiful Hoya plant with abundant clusters of small, star-shaped flowers resembling shooting stars. The Hoya is also identified by its huge, waxy, lance-shaped leaves with a shrub-like growth. Up to 50 beautiful white flowers bloom per cluster, contrasting the deep green foliage. The Hoya shrub grows 8 feet (2.5 m) tall.

Hoya Multiflora ‘Shooting Star’ — fragrant white blooms with dark purple throats.

Leaf characteristics: Glossy, lanceolate, dark green leaves growing up to 8 inches (20 cm).
Flower feature: Abundant large clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in creamy-white colors.
Light requirements: Hoya Multiflora prefers indirect light and some shade.
Growth habits: Grows as a small shrub, making a stunning focal point indoors.

Hoya Macrophylla

Hoya Macrophylla is a popular Hoya type for growing indoors. The tropical plant is identified by its large, waxy leaves with a waxy texture. The foliage also has prominent veining and yellow edges with a slender red margin. In ideal conditions, it blooms occasionally with dangling clusters of white, waxy flowers.

The trailing stems of Hoya Macrophylla grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall.

Leaf characteristics: Large, glossy, pointed leaves that grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long.
Flower feature: Clusters of fragrant, star-shaped white flowers with a pink center.
Light requirements: Filtered, bright light but keep away from direct sunlight
Growth habits: Vining growth habit makes it perfect for growing on a trellis or in a hanging basket. The long vines may require support as they mature.

Hoya Loheri

Hoya Loheri is a rare and exquisite Hoya type known for its striking foliage and unique flower clusters. This Hoya features light green, pointed, narrow leaves that are stiff and curl at the margins. It blooms in summer with clusters of fragrant flowers blooming in reddish-brown shades. It has a scrambling nature.

Leaf characteristics: The type of Hoya has thick, leathery, elongated, pointed leaves with a deep green color and red shades underneath
Flower feature: The flowers are tiny pale pink or reddish-brown, ball-shaped blooms with a waxy texture
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade.
Growth habits: Hoya Loheri has a trailing, bushy growth habit

Hoya Cumingiana

Hoya Cumingiana is a rare and highly sought-after Hoya species plant due to its glossy leaves with hints of red blushing. This type of Hoya is also prized for its stunning clusters of star-shaped flowers. This Hoya requires specific care and conditions to thrive but is a stunning addition to any collection of Hoya plants.

Leaf characteristics: Small, elongated leaves with a glossy texture
Flower feature: Clusters of star-shaped flowers in shades of pink or white
Light requirements: Hoya Cumingiana prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions
Growth habits: Vining growth habit that can be trained on a trellis or left to cascade in a hanging basket. It can also be grown as a compact tabletop plant.

Related Reading: Want to protect your Hoyas from curious paws? Read my guide on how to keep cats away from plants for pet-friendly tricks that work—without wrecking your indoor jungle.

Hoya Calycina

Hoya Calycina is a stunning Hoya plant known for its striking pink and red star-shaped flowers. It has succulent, olive-green, fuzzy leaves growing densely on vining stems. Its beautiful flowers measure 1.25 inches (3 cm) across. Compared to other Hoya types, this is challenging for beginners. However, it’s worth the effort for its striking beauty.

Leaf color and characteristics: Oval-shaped, dark green leaves with a glossy texture.
Flower feature: Clusters of large pink starry flowers with red centers. They have a waxy texture and a pleasant fragrance.
Light requirements: Keep in indirect sunlight for the best growing conditions.
Growth habits: The vining stems trained on a trellis, cascade over a hanging basket, or grow up a moss pole.

Hoya Diptera

Hoya diptera is a fast-growing epiphytic vining plant with thick, light-green oval leaves. Its outstanding feature is its delightful clusters of custard-yellow flowers in the shape of stars. This hoya type is ideal for beginners as it has vigorous growth and blooms easily in most household conditions.

Leaf color and characteristics: Round, thick green leaves with no visible patterns.
Flower feature: Clusters of star-shaped, yellow flowers with red centers.
Sunlight requirements: Hoya Diptera thrives in brighter light but can tolerate some shade.
Growth habits: Vigorous vining growth rate.

Hoya Serpens

Hoya Serpens has some of the smallest leaves of all Hoya types. The delightful wax plant has small, oval leaves with a fuzzy texture and delicate veining patterns. It has green flowers growing in dangling umbels, adding to this unique Hoya’s charm. The H. serpens is prized for its compact growth, small, succulent-like leaves, and delicate, fuzzy flowers.

Hoay Serepens– round, silvery-green leaves with a soft, felted surface.

Perfect for baskets—see more in Hoya types for hanging baskets.

Leaf characteristics: Small, succulent-like leaves that are green and somewhat fleshy on this miniature wax plant.
Flower feature: Clusters of tiny, star-shaped green flowers.
Light requirements: Hoya Serpens thrives in bright light; however, use grow lights where there is insufficient light.
Growth habits: Slow-growing succulent plant ideal for compact spaces or as a tabletop plant.

Hoya Imbricata

Hoya Imbricata is a striking Hoya type with eye-catching lanceolate leaves with heavy speckling. The large, decorative leaves are mottled green and measure 10 inches (25 cm) in diameter. They have upturned margins, giving the Hoya a unique appearance. The beautiful leaves appear tightly overlapped, giving it a shingled appearance.

Leaf characteristics: Huge, deep green leaves with grayish-mottled patterns.
Flower feature: Clusters of tiny, round yellow and white flowers growing in umbels.
Light requirements: Place it near a south or west-facing window to get the correct light for healthy growth.
Growth habits: Slow-growing succulent plant.

Hoya Ariadna

Hoya Ariadna is a rare, stunning Hoya plant, prized among collectors for its thick green leaves with a central sunken vein. This unique tropical plant has orange to red waxy flowers shaped like tiny cups. The flowers measure 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The Hoya Ariadna is a perfect addition to a tropical houseplant collection.

Leaf characteristics: Thick, waxy leaves measuring 4! (10 cm) long with a depressed line in the center
Flower feature: Small, cup-shaped orange or gold clusters with a musky fragrance.
Light requirements: Bright, light, and can tolerate full sun; avoid low-medium light conditions.
Growth habits: Cascading growth habit, making it ideal for growing in hanging baskets or trailing down shelves or trellises.

Hoya Platycaulis

Hoya Platycaulis is a stunning Hoya type due to its long, pointed strap-like leaves. The long, narrow leaves have upturned edges, giving it a unique appearance. The plant blooms regularly with spectacular clusters of yellow starry flowers, with up to 15 flowers per umbel.

It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant, making it a great choice for beginner and experienced houseplant enthusiasts.

Leaf characteristics: Long, narrow leaves flattened in the center and slightly fleshy.
Flower feature: Clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, typically yellow or yellowish-green.
Light requirements: Hoya Platycaulis thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light conditions.
Growth habits: It has arching stems, creating a cascade of attractive succulent foliage.

Hoya Macgillivrayi

Hoya Macgillivrayi is a spectacular Hoya type due to its huge purple, cup-shaped starry flowers. The fast-growing vining plant features oval, pointed leaves growing oppositely on long stems. Its dark burgundy flowers measure 2.3 inches (6 cm) across, and up to ten attractive flowers bloom in each cluster.

Hoay Macgillivrayi – deep wine-red flowers paired with shiny green foliage.

This Hoya climbing plant produces beautiful clusters of red or pink flowers with a waxy texture.

Leaf characteristics: Large, pointe, oval leaves with a glossy texture and deep green color.
Flower feature: Clusters of eye-catching deep wine-red or maroon flowers with a waxy texture.
Light requirements: Bright lights or grow lights to encourage healthy growth.
Growth habits: Grow this vigorous Hoya on a trellis or in a hanging basket.

Hoya Wightii

Hoya Wightii is a beautiful Hoya plant known for its heart-shaped, succulent leaves and clusters of delicate white flowers. This slow-growing Hoya plant has waxy, star-shaped flowers with five white fused petals surrounding a deep pink center. Its waxy leaves and raised veining patterns.

With a trailing growth habit, it’s popular for hanging baskets or as a cascading houseplant.

Leaf color and characteristics: Thick, succulent heart-shaped deep green leaves with a shiny, waxy texture.
Flower feature: Clusters of small white star-shaped flowers with a sweet, honey-like fragrance.
Lighting requirements: Hoya Wightii prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Growing habits: Trailing growth habits are ideal for hanging baskets or cascading over shelves or trellises. It can tolerate low-medium light occasionally.

Hoya Coronaria

Famous for its medium-sized, waxy green leaves and white waxy flowers, the Hoya Coronaria is a beautiful and fragrant Hoya type. This plant thrives in direct sunlight and dappled shade to grow fast and bloom well. Compared to other Hoyas, this green-leaved plant is more demanding regarding care.

Hoya Plant: FAQs

How can I get a Hoya to bloom?

Bright, indirect light, steady humidity, and letting soil partly dry encourage blooms. Avoid heavy pruning on old spurs—flowers return there yearly. Some Hoyas need years to mature before flowering.

What is the best soil for Hoya plants?

Use a chunky, well-draining mix—orchid bark, perlite, and peat or coco coir. Drainage holes are essential to prevent root rot and promote long-term health.

Are Hoya plants toxic to cats and dogs?

No, Hoya plants are generally non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it’s always best to monitor pets around plants, the ASPCA reports that Hoyas are considered safe houseplants. However, some studies suggest that the waxy leaves on some Hoya plant types can cause allergic reactions in cats and dogs.

Do rare and unusual Hoya plants bloom indoors?

Yes—given bright, filtered light, humidity, and warmth. Many unusual species need maturity before flowering. Patience and stable care are key.

Are all Hoya types of plants suitable for beginners?

Not all. Hardy options like Hoya carnosa and Hoya kerrii adapt well. Research each type’s light, humidity, and temperature needs before buying.

What is the fastest-growing Hoya plant?

Hoya carnosa cultivars are among the quickest, producing long vines in bright, indirect light with airy soil. Prune lightly to keep growth bushy.

How many species of Hoya are there?

Over 500 species exist, though fewer than 100 are widely grown as houseplants. Many remain collector-only plants due to rarity and growing challenges.

Where do Hoyas grow in the wild?

Hoyas are native to tropical Asia and Australia, often found climbing trees in rainforests. Their epiphytic habit influences their preference for airy, well-drained soil.

19 Unusual Hoya Plants to Grow At Home