Hoya australis 'Lisa'

Hoya australis 'Lisa' - Tricolor Wax Plant
Add a splash of vibrant color to your indoor garden with Hoya australis 'Lisa'! This stunning cultivar boasts glossy, oval-shaped leaves adorned with a beautiful variegation of dark green, lime green, creamy yellow, and sometimes even hints of pink and peach. The colors blend together in a watercolor-like pattern, making each leaf a unique work of art.
'Lisa' is a moderately vigorous climber with slightly twisting stems that readily vine and can be trained on a trellis or displayed in a hanging basket. With enough bright, indirect light, the variegation will remain vibrant; insufficient light may cause the green color to dominate. In ideal conditions, this Hoya can produce clusters of fragrant, star-shaped white flowers, often with pink centers, adding another layer of appeal. The scent is often described as a strong chocolate and vanilla fragrance, similar to Hoya carnosa.

Care Tips:
* Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. For the best variegation, provide ample light.
* Water: Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. This Hoya is relatively drought-tolerant.
* Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a mix specifically formulated for Hoyas or a blend of potting soil with perlite and coco coir.
* Humidity: While it can adapt to average household humidity (30-40%), it thrives in moderate to high humidity (50-60%).
* Temperature: Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C).
* Fertilizing: Feed during the growing season (spring and summer) about once a month with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. You can switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus to encourage blooming.
Hoya australis 'Lisa' is relatively low-maintenance and pet-friendly, making it a wonderful addition to any plant lover's collection. Its beautiful foliage and potential for fragrant blooms make it a captivating and rewarding houseplant.

Botanical Name: Hoya australis ssp. tenuipes 'Lisa'

Common Name: hoya Lisa, variegated Australis, wax plant, porcelain flower

Family: Apocynaceae

Native: Australia