Hoya Australis Blondie - Medium

Size: 20-22cm

Hoya australis 'Blondie' is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-care-for cultivar of Hoya australis, known for its variegated leaves with creamy yellow or blond tones. Like other Hoyas, it's a tropical epiphyte, meaning it thrives in conditions similar to those found in rainforests—warm, humid, and with good airflow.

Here’s how to care for your Hoya australis 'Blondie':

🌞 Light

• Bright, indirect light is ideal.

• A few hours of gentle morning sun or filtered light through a sheer curtain can enhance growth and coloration.

• Avoid intense direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the variegated leaves.

💧 Water

• Let the top 2–3 inches of soil dry between waterings.

• Water less in winter and more in summer, but always adjust based on humidity and light levels.

• Avoid overwatering—root rot is a common killer of Hoyas.

Tip: It's better to underwater than overwater Hoyas.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C).

• Humidity: Moderate to high. Aim for 50%+ humidity for optimal growth.

• If your air is dry, consider a humidifier or pebble tray.

🌱 Soil

• Use a well-draining, chunky mix, similar to an orchid or aroid mix:

  • Mix idea: potting soil + orchid bark + perlite + a bit of coco coir or peat.

• Good airflow around roots is essential.

🪴 Potting

• Hoyas like to be slightly rootbound, so don’t repot too often.

• Repot only when roots are coming out of the pot or growth has stalled.

🌸 Fertilizing

• Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (diluted to half strength).

• Stop or reduce fertilizing in fall and winter.

🌼 Blooming

• Hoya australis ‘Blondie’ can bloom with proper care, producing fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers.

• It blooms on the same peduncles (flower spurs)—don’t cut them off.

• Flowering is encouraged by:

  • Bright light

  • Being rootbound

  • Consistent watering and feeding

🔁 Propagation

• Can be propagated via stem cuttings in water, moss, or a well-draining soil mix.

• Ensure at least one node is included, and remove lower leaves before rooting.

⚠️ Common Issues

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Leaf drop: Can be from underwatering, cold drafts, or stress.

• No blooms: Needs more light or isn’t mature/rootbound enough.