What Hoya Princess is
“Hoya Princess” usually refers to Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Princess’, a variegated wax plant with green leaves that have creamy-white or pale margins, often blushed with pink in bright light and on new growth. Like other Hoya carnosa types, it has thick, waxy leaves and can produce clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers. If you are new to the genus, our guide on whether Hoya is an indoor plant gives the basics.
Princess, Queen and Tricolor
These names can be confusing, and sellers do not always label them consistently.
- Krimson Princess: Usually green leaves with a pale outer edge.
- Krimson Queen: Usually has a green centre with cream edges, with the pale area generally broader. Sometimes the names are swapped by sellers.
- Tricolor: A name often used for the pink-tinged variegated form.
Because labelling varies, check photos and ask the seller if the exact form matters to you.
Light
Bright, indirect light is best. Variegated leaves have less green tissue to photosynthesise, so they generally need decent light to grow and show colour. A bright window with a few hours of gentle sun may help pink tones appear. Strong midday sun can scorch the pale areas, and very low light tends to slow growth and reduce variegation.
Watering
Let the soil dry out partly between waterings, then water thoroughly and let the pot drain. The thick leaves store some water, so overwatering is usually more harmful than a short dry spell. Water less in winter when growth slows. Wrinkled leaves can mean thirst, while yellowing and a soft base may point to too much water.
Soil, pot and feeding
- Use a free-draining mix, for example potting soil mixed with bark and perlite.
- Choose a pot with drainage holes, and do not oversize it. Hoyas often flower better when a little snug.
- Feed lightly during spring and summer with a diluted houseplant fertiliser.
Temperature and humidity
Typical room temperatures suit it. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops. Does a hoya need humidity? Many cope with ordinary indoor humidity, though somewhat higher humidity may help growth. Good airflow helps limit fungal problems.
Does it climb or hang?
Hoya Princess can do both. Left alone, the stems tend to trail down from a hanging basket. Given a small trellis or hoop, the vines will twine upwards. For ideas on supports, see best climbing plants indoors, or consider alternatives in indoor plants that grow downwards.
Getting it to bloom
Blooms are not guaranteed and usually need a mature plant. These steps can help:
- Provide plenty of bright, indirect light.
- Avoid frequent repotting; a slightly snug pot is fine.
- Keep watering steady but not soggy.
- Do not cut off the short flower stalks after blooms fade, since they can flower again.
- Be patient, and avoid moving the plant often.
Common problems
- No new growth: Often low light or cold conditions (see plants near a cold window for winter sill risks).
- Yellow leaves: Frequently overwatering.
- Leaves reverting to plain green: Variegated plants sometimes produce green growth; prune it if you want to keep the pattern.
- Pests: Look for mealybugs and aphids on new growth and flower buds.
Pet safety
Hoya carnosa is commonly listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, but a non-toxic label does not make it a snack. Chewing may cause stomach upset, and the sap can irritate skin. Keep it out of reach of pets and children, and contact a vet or poison helpline if you think it has been eaten.
FAQ
Is Hoya Princess hard to care for?
It is often described as moderately easy, provided it gets bright light and its soil can dry between waterings.
Do hoyas prefer to climb or hang?
They can do either.
How do I care for a Hoya carnosa plant?
Bright indirect light, a chunky well-draining mix and careful watering are the basics.