What are hoyas?

What are hoyas?
Hoyas are a genus of evergreen flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae.

Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Subfamily: Asclepiadoideae
Tribe: Marsdenieae
Genus: Hoya

They are native to tropical regions of Asia and Australia, but they are also commonly grown as houseplants in many other parts of the world. The plants are often referred to as "wax plants" because their leaves are thick and waxy to the touch.

Because many hoyas are epiphytic, they have adapted to grow on the surface of trees and other plants, where they are exposed to fluctuating amounts of moisture. This means that hoyas are adapted to periods of drought and can handle drying out between waterings.

There are over 500 species of hoyas, ranging in size from small trailing plants to large climbers that can grow several meters in length. Some of the most commonly grown hoyas include Hoya carnosa, Hoya pubicalyx, Hoya kerrii, and Hoya linearis.

Hoyas are known for their succulent leaves, which store water and allow the plants to survive in dry environments. The leaves are typically dark green and have a shiny, waxy surface. Some hoyas have variegated leaves with white or yellow markings.

The flowers of hoyas are unique and often have interesting shapes and textures. Most hoyas produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are arranged in umbels or hanging clusters. The flowers are often fragrant and can be white, pink, red, or other colors. Some species produce flowers that are shaped like bells or tubes.

Hoyas are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a range of conditions. They prefer bright, indirect light and can tolerate some direct sun, although too much sun can scorch the leaves. Hoyas prefer well-draining soil and can be grown in pots or hanging baskets. They are drought-tolerant and prefer to dry out between waterings, so it's important not to overwater them.

Propagation is relatively easy with hoyas. They can be propagated from stem cuttings, which can be rooted in water or a well-draining potting mix. Some species can also be propagated by layering, where a stem is bent down and covered with soil until it produces roots.

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