Contents
Description
Hoya Australis is a popular plant among gardening enthusiasts, known for its beautiful foliage and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers. This evergreen plant is native to Eastern Australia and can grow up to 6 meters long in its natural habitat. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is also commonly referred to as the Wax Plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eukaryota | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Gentianales | Apocynaceae | Hoya |
Appearance
The Hoya Australis has thick, succulent leaves that are dark green in color and can grow up to 13 cm long and 6 cm wide. The leaves are slightly waxy and have a shiny surface. The flowers of this plant are small, star-shaped and waxy, and grow in clusters of 10-20. They are typically white or pale pink in color with a sweet, pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Water
Hoya Australis prefers to be kept slightly dry, so it’s important not to overwater. Water the plant once a week or whenever the top of the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Soil
The Hoya Australis prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.
Sunlight
These plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Hoya Australis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hoya Australis is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Overwatering can also cause root rot, so it’s important to water the plant sparingly. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, while brown, papery leaves can indicate under-watering.
Habitat
The Hoya Australis is native to Eastern Australia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including open forests, rocky outcrops, and along the coast. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hoya Australis?
A: Water the plant once a week or whenever the top of the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What kind of soil does the Hoya Australis prefer?
A: The Hoya Australis prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.
Q: What kind of sunlight does the Hoya Australis need?
A: These plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect the Hoya Australis?
A: Mealybugs and spider mites can be a problem for this plant. Overwatering can also cause root rot.
Related Plants
- Hoya carnosa
- Hoya kerrii
- Hoya pubicalyx
- Hoya lacunosa
- Hoya curtisii
References
- “Hoya australis.” PlantNet. Accessed June 17, 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Hoya~australis.
- “Hoya Australis.” Gardenia. Accessed June 17, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/hoya-australis-wax-plant.
- “Hoya Australis Care Guide.” Epic Gardening. Accessed June 17, 2021. https://www.epicgardening.com/hoya-australis/.
