Hoya carnosa ‘Tricolor’ is a graceful, succulent houseplant cherished for its glossy, variegated leaves and scented, porcelain-like flowers. It is a stem-rooting climber that can reach around 2 metres in length, producing thick, waxy foliage that reflects light beautifully. The leaves are mid-green, irregularly splashed with cream and flushed with pink when young, creating a lively mix of tones. In warm indoor conditions, the plant bears tight, dome-shaped clusters of starry, pale pink flowers with a delicate fragrance released during the evening. Each bloom is slightly waxy and long-lasting, adding refinement to the plant’s lush, cascading form. Mature specimens may also produce slender, cylindrical green seed pods after flowering.

Growing Conditions

Hoya carnosa ‘Tricolor’ thrives in bright, indirect light and warm indoor temperatures between eighteen and twenty-four degrees Celsius. Too little light may reduce flowering, while direct sun can scorch the foliage. The plant prefers a free-draining compost composed of bark, perlite, and peat-free mix to allow air circulation around the roots. Water sparingly, letting the top few centimetres of compost dry between waterings, as overwatering can damage the roots. Moderate humidity encourages flowering and healthy leaf development. A support such as a trellis or hoop allows the vines to climb and display their variegated leaves to best effect.

Care and Maintenance

This species is easy to maintain and rewarding to grow. Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted fertiliser. Avoid moving the plant while buds are forming, as this can cause them to drop. Remove spent flowers to keep the plant tidy. Older stems may be trimmed lightly to shape or propagated from cuttings.

Environmental Benefits

Hoya carnosa ‘Tricolor’ brings refined texture, colour, and scent to indoor spaces. Its glossy foliage, trailing growth, and perfumed flowers provide elegance and calm while improving air freshness.