Hoya Lyi splash 6464

🌿 The Hoya lyi is a captivating wax plant from the Apocynaceae family, originally found growing in the mountainous regions of Southeast Asia where it climbs through tropical forests. This species belongs to the genus Hoya, known for their thick, waxy leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers. Native to Thailand and surrounding areas, this particular variety develops rounded, succulent-like foliage that stores moisture efficiently. It's considered an intermediate-level plant, requiring some attention to watering and light but forgiving enough for those with a bit of experience. Here's something interesting: Hoya lyi produces nectar-rich flowers that can actually drip sweet liquid, sometimes leaving small puddles on surfaces below during peak blooming periods.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This hoya grows as a vining plant that can trail gracefully from hanging containers or climb when given support. The leaves are notably round and plump, almost coin-shaped, with a glossy, waxy surface that reflects light beautifully. Foliage colour ranges from deep green to slightly grey-green depending on light exposure. The texture is thick and succulent, firm to the touch, with leaves spaced along trailing stems that can extend several feet over time.
FLOWER DETAILS
Hoya lyi produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that appear in rounded umbels. The blooms are typically cream to pale yellow with burgundy or maroon centres, creating a striking two-tone effect. Each flower cluster releases a sweet, honey-like fragrance that intensifies during evening hours. The waxy petals have an almost artificial appearance, looking like they're carved from porcelain. Flowering usually occurs once or twice annually when the plant reaches maturity, typically in spring through summer. To encourage blooming, provide bright indirect light, allow the plant to become slightly root-bound, and avoid removing the peduncles (flower stalks) after blooms fade, as Hoya lyi often flowers from the same spots repeatedly.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light works best, though it tolerates some morning sun. Needs approximately 6-8 hours of filtered light daily for optimal growth and flowering
💧 Water: Allow soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Water thoroughly when the leaves begin to feel slightly soft or less firm. In summer, water every 7-10 days; in winter, reduce to every 14-21 days. Bottom watering or soaking method works well
🌡️ Humidity: Adapts to average home humidity of 40-50% but thrives in 50-60% range
🪴 Soil: Well-draining, chunky mix with perlite, orchid bark, and peat or coco coir. Needs excellent aeration
🏺 Potting: Prefers to be slightly root-bound in small pots, typically 4-6 inches for mature plants. Terracotta or unglazed ceramic helps with moisture regulation. Repot only every 2-3 years or when severely root-bound
🌱 Growth rate: Slow to moderate. Expect 4-8 inches of new growth over 6 months, 10-18 inches in a year. Mature vines can reach 3-5 feet in length
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer or orchid fertilizer at half strength. Skip fertilizing in fall and winter
🐾 Pet friendly: No, Hoya lyi is considered toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Contains compounds that can cause vomiting, drooling, and gastrointestinal upset. Keep out of reach of curious pets
WHERE TO PUT IT
Hoya lyi does well in bright living rooms near east or west-facing windows, in bathrooms with good natural light where humidity is naturally higher, or in home offices on shelves where the vining stems can cascade. It's perfect for hanging planters or elevated surfaces where the trailing growth can be appreciated. Bedrooms work if there's sufficient window light. Avoid placing it in dark corners, windowless rooms, or areas with strong air conditioning vents that create dry air currents. Keep away from cold drafts in winter and direct hot afternoon sun through south-facing windows, which can scorch the leaves.