Looking for a houseplant that’s both beautiful and easy to care for? The Hoya krimson princess might be your perfect match. This stunning variegated houseplant is famous for its waxy leaves splashed with pink, cream, and green.
It’s a fantastic choice for beginners and experts alike. We’ll cover everything you need to know to keep yours thriving.
Hoya Krimson Princess
This plant is a cultivar of the common Hoya carnosa. Its full name is Hoya carnosa ‘Krimson Princess’. The “princess” refers to the variegation pattern, which is centered on the leaf. Each leaf is a unique work of art, making no two plants exactly the same.
It’s a vining plant, perfect for hanging baskets or training up a support. With good care, it will reward you with clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers.
Essential Care Guide
Don’t be intimidated by its fancy looks. The Krimson Princess is quite forgiving. Here are the core elements to focus on.
Light Requirements
Light is the most important factor for maintaining its vibrant colors. It needs bright, indirect light for several hours a day.
- A spot near an east or west-facing window is ideal.
- Some morning or late afternoon sun is okay, but avoid harsh midday rays that can scorch the leaves.
- In lower light, the plant will survive, but the pink and cream variegation will fade and the growth will become leggy as it reaches for light.
Watering Your Hoya
Overwatering is the quickest way to harm this plant. Hoyas are semi-succulent, storing water in their thick leaves.
- Water deeply only when the soil is almost completely dry. You can check by sticking your finger into the top few inches of soil.
- In summer, this might be every 1-2 weeks. In winter, it could be every 3-4 weeks or even longer.
- Always use a pot with drainage holes. Soggy soil will lead to root rot, which is often fatal.
Soil and Potting Needs
A well-draining, airy mix is non-negotiable. Standard potting soil holds too much moisture.
A simple recipe is to mix:
- 50% regular potting soil
- 25% perlite
- 25% orchid bark or coconut coir
This blend allows water to flow through quickly while providing some nutrients. Repot only every 2-3 years, as Hoyas like to be slightly root-bound.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant enjoys average room temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Keep it away from cold drafts and heating vents.
While it tolerates average home humidity, it thrives with a bit more. Aim for 40-60% humidity if you can.
- Group plants together.
- Use a pebble tray filled with water beneath the pot.
- Consider a small humidifier nearby, especially in dry winter months.
Pruning and Propagation
Pruning helps maintain a bushy shape. You can prune any time, but spring is best. Always cut just above a leaf node (the point on the stem where leaves grow).
Don’t throw those cuttings away! Propagating a Hoya krimson princess is straightforward.
Follow these steps to propagate in water:
- Take a cutting with at least 2-3 nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom node.
- Place the cutting in a glass of clean water, ensuring the bare node is submerged.
- Put it in bright, indirect light. Change the water weekly.
- In a few weeks, you should see white roots developing. Wait until they are an inch or two long before potting in soil.
Encouraging Blooms
The flowers are a special treat. They grow on long-lasting spurs called peduncles. Never cut these off after flowering, as new blooms will appear from the same spot.
To encourage blooming:
- Provide plenty of bright, indirect light. This is the biggest trigger.
- Let the plant become pot-bound.
- Provide a slight drop in temperature at night during the fall.
- Use a fertilizer high in phosphorus (like a tomato feed) during the growing season, but don’t overdo it.
Be patient. A plant often needs to be 2-3 years mature before it’s ready to flower.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even easy plants can have issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems.
Yellowing Leaves
This is usually a sign of overwatering. Check the soil immediately. If it’s wet, let it dry out completely before watering again. You may need to check the roots for rot if it’s widespread.
Leaf Drop
Sudden leaf drop can be caused by a drastic change in environment, like moving the plant or a big temperature swing. It can also happen if the roots are too cold from sitting in wet soil.
Pests
Hoyas can occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Inspect your plant regularly, especially under the leaves.
- For light infestations, wipe leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- For more persistent problems, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the product instructions carefully.
Lack of Variegation
If new leaves are coming in solid green, the plant isn’t getting enough light. Gradually move it to a brighter location. Be careful not to sunburn it by moving it to direct sun to quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hoya Krimson Princess toxic to pets?
Yes, like many Hoyas, it is considered mildly toxic if ingested by cats or dogs. It’s best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.
What’s the difference between Krimson Princess and Krimson Queen?
The ‘Krimson Queen’ has variegation on the edges of the leaves, while the ‘Princess’ has variegation in the center. Their care is identical.
Why are the leaves on my Hoya wrinkling?
Wrinkled, soft leaves usually mean the plant is thirsty and needs water. If the soil is wet and leaves are wrinkled, the roots may be damaged from overwatering and can’t take up moisture.
How fast does this Hoya grow?
Growth speed depends on light and season. In ideal conditions during spring and summer, you can expect moderate growth. It tends to grow slower in lower light and during the winter dormancy period.
Can I use leaf shine on the leaves?
It’s not recommended. The waxy coating on the leaves can be damaged by commercial leaf shine products. Just wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust, which also helps the plant breathe better.
With it’s stunning looks and resilient nature, the Hoya krimson princess is a joy to have in any plant collection. Pay attention to light and water, and you’ll have a healthy, beautiful vine for years to come. Remember, the key is to mimic it’s natural environment—think bright forest canopy and periods of dryness between rains. Your efforts will be rewarded with lush growth and, eventually, those spectacular fragrant blooms.