Hoya Lanceolata "Bella"

Hoya lanceolata subsp. bella has delicate, lance-shaped leaves that emerge light green from orange-pink stems. A subspecies of Hoya lanceolata, the bella doesn't grow quite as large, with individual vines growing to only 18 or so inches, which is why it's often referred to as the Miniature Wax Plant. Hoya lanceolata bella is semi-succulent and drought tolerant, and perfect for bright, indirect light. What's more, this Hoya is a profuse bloomer when the plant reaches maturity. Its clusters of white and pink star-shaped flowers are heavily perfumed, with a scent that is rich and sweet.

PLANT CARE

• Light: Perfect for bright, indirect light
• Water: Drought tolerant. Water when the top few centimeters of soil feels dry to the touch 
• Considerations: Use well-draining soil, and select a planter with drainage. Pet friendly!

WHAT TO EXPECT

You'll get a healthy Hoya Bella that meets our rigorous quality standards in a 12cm nursery pot. No two plants are alike, and yours will have its own unique shape, size, and personality; expect this natural variation from the photos.

Hoya Lanceolata "Bella": A Stunning Indoor Plant for Enthusiasts

The Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" is a beautiful and unique variety of the Hoya genus, commonly known for its lush green foliage and waxy, star-shaped flowers. This particular variety is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts for its eye-catching appearance and low-maintenance care requirements. Native to Southeast Asia, the Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" thrives indoors, making it an ideal addition to homes, offices, or patios with proper care.

Its thick, lance-shaped leaves and delicate clusters of fragrant flowers make it a standout plant in any collection. Known for its ability to climb or cascade, this Hoya variety can be trained to grow in various forms, such as a hanging plant or trellis, adding a touch of elegance and exotic beauty to your indoor garden.

Key Features of Hoya Lanceolata "Bella":

1. Unique Foliage: The Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" is known for its distinct, lance-shaped leaves that are rich green with a leathery texture. The foliage adds lushness to any indoor space, providing an attractive backdrop even when the plant isn’t in bloom.
   
2. Fragrant Flowers: One of the most delightful features of this Hoya is its stunning clusters of star-shaped flowers. The blooms are typically pink or white and emit a sweet, fragrant aroma that fills the room. When in bloom, the Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" truly stands out as a unique centerpiece in any home.
   
3. Climbing and Trailing Habit: The plant has a natural tendency to climb or trail, which makes it perfect for hanging baskets or trellises. Over time, it can grow long vines that can be trained to climb on supports or left to cascade elegantly from hanging planters.
   
4. Low Maintenance: Like most Hoyas, Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention to thrive. It's perfect for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers who are looking for a plant that’s as low-maintenance as it is beautiful.
   
5. Long-Lasting Blooms: Once the flowers bloom, they can last for several weeks, bringing continuous beauty and fragrance to your home. They also tend to bloom multiple times a year, ensuring that you’ll enjoy fresh flowers for longer periods.
   
6. Resilient and Hardy: This plant is hardy in warmer climates but is also adaptable to indoor environments. It’s resilient to minor neglect, such as occasional watering lapses, making it an excellent choice for busy individuals or those with limited time for plant care.
   

Benefits of Hoya Lanceolata "Bella":

1. Aesthetic Appeal: The unique appearance of the Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" makes it an eye-catching addition to any room. The glossy green leaves and charming star-shaped flowers add a touch of elegance and greenery to both contemporary and traditional home decor.
   
2. Fragrant and Soothing: The sweet, pleasant fragrance of the flowers creates a calming atmosphere, making it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. The scent is subtle but noticeable, creating a serene environment in your home.
   
3. Improves Air Quality: Like many houseplants, the Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" can help improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. This makes it a beneficial plant for your living space, especially in areas that may need a boost in air purification.
   
4. Easy to Propagate: If you want to grow more Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" plants, it’s relatively easy to propagate this variety. You can take stem cuttings from the plant, root them in water or soil, and create new plants to share with friends or add more greenery to your own home.
   

How to Care for Hoya Lanceolata "Bella":

1. Light Requirements: Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. A bright windowsill with sheer curtains or a spot with filtered sunlight works well. It can tolerate lower light conditions but may not bloom as frequently.
   
2. Watering: Like most Hoyas, the Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering since the plant’s growth slows down.
   
3. Humidity: This plant thrives in moderate to high humidity, which mimics its tropical origins. To keep your Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" happy, you can mist the leaves occasionally, especially in dry indoor environments. Alternatively, placing the plant on a humidity tray or using a humidifier can also help.
   
4. Temperature: The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Keep it away from cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations, as it prefers a stable, warm environment. Avoid placing it near air conditioners or heaters that can dry out the air.
   
5. Fertilizing: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" with a balanced, liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. In the winter, you can reduce fertilization, as the plant enters a dormant phase. Over-fertilizing can result in excessive leaf growth with fewer blooms.
   
6. Pruning: Pruning isn’t typically necessary, but you can trim back leggy stems to encourage fuller growth or to shape the plant. Be sure to prune just above a leaf node to promote new growth. If your plant becomes too large, you can also cut the vines and propagate them.
   
7. Repotting: Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" doesn’t need to be repotted often. It prefers to be a bit root-bound, so only repot when the plant has outgrown its current container or if the roots are visibly growing through the drainage holes. Typically, repot every 2-3 years.
   

Common Issues and Troubleshooting:

• Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure that your pot has good drainage, and water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
  
• No Blooms: If your Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" isn’t blooming, it might not be receiving enough light. Make sure it’s placed in bright, indirect light and that you’re not overwatering the plant.
  
• Pests: While Hoya Lanceolata "Bella" is generally pest-resistant, it can still attract common houseplant pests like aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Inspect the plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.