Variegated Wax Plant

Variegated Wax Plant (Hoya australis 'Lisa')

Variegated Wax Plant is a vigorous, twining hoya with thick, glossy leaves marbled in cream, lime, and green that often flush pink on new growth; clusters of fragrant, waxy star flowers appear on mature plants, making a standout indoor specimen for bright, indirect light.

Distinctive Features

Broad, succulent leaves show stable variegation and occasional pink blush, while reblooming umbels arise on persistent peduncles, offering sweet fragrance and long display in good light.

Growing Conditions

Provide strong filtered light, a chunky, fast-draining mix, and moderate watering with partial dry-down; warmth and moderate humidity support steady growth and flowering.

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light with brief morning sun; avoid harsh afternoon rays that can scorch variegation.
• Soil: Airy epiphyte blend with bark and perlite plus a small amount of peat or coco; excellent drainage is essential.
• Water: Water thoroughly, then let the top 1 to 2 in dry; reduce frequency in winter.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 11 outdoors; grow as a houseplant elsewhere.
• Mature Size: Vines typically 4 to 10 ft indoors with support.
• Bloom Time: Spring to fall on established plants under bright conditions.
• Humidity: Moderate to high, about 40 to 60 percent.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.

Ideal Uses

Train on trellises for a sculptural statement or let stems trail from shelves to spotlight the multi-tone foliage and fragrant umbels.

• Focal Point: Variegated leaves and pink flush create a bold indoor accent.
• Hanging Displays: Cascading vines showcase foliage and blooms.
• Trellised Specimen: Twining growth forms tidy spirals on hoops or ladders.
• Collector Groupings: Pairs well with dark or silver-splashed hoyas.
• Bright-Shade Corners: Performs where many tropical vines struggle.

Low Maintenance Care

Keep roots slightly snug, feed lightly in warm months, and never remove flowering spurs to encourage reliable rebloom.

• Watering: Deep soak and drain fully; err slightly dry to prevent root rot.
• Pruning: Tip-trim to shape but do not cut peduncles, which rebloom.
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer at half strength monthly in spring and summer.
• Mulching: Not required in pots; a thin decorative bark layer can slow evaporation.
• Notes: Increase airflow to deter mealybugs and scale; repot only when rootbound to maintain flowering momentum.

Why Choose Variegated Wax Plant?

This cultivar combines showy, multi-tone foliage with forgiving care and scented blooms for year-round indoor impact.

• Lively Variegation: Cream, lime, and green leaves with pink flush.
• Fragrant Umbels: Waxy stars on mature vines in good light.
• Waterwise: Succulent leaves tolerate brief dry-downs.
• Space Efficient: Trails or trains vertically to fit small areas.
• Easy and Durable: Adaptable houseplant with long lifespan.

Place in bright, indirect light with a chunky mix, allow partial dry-down, and keep peduncles intact to enjoy repeat bloom and luminous variegation.