Hoya australis 'Lisa' – Variegated Beauty with Tropical Flair

Hoya australis 'Lisa' is a widely loved variegated cultivar of Hoya australis R.Br. ex J.Traill, native to Australia and nearby Pacific islands. This evergreen climber showcases thick, glossy leaves with creamy centers, vivid green margins, and pink to red new growth. Adaptable and easy-care, 'Lisa' thrives in indoor settings as a climber or trailer. In bright conditions, it produces fragrant white flowers with violet-pink centers — a visually striking and sweet-smelling highlight of the growing season.
Key Features of Hoya australis 'Lisa'
 
Foliage: Thick, variegated leaves with creamy centers, green borders, and reddish new growth
 
Growth Habit: Trailing or climbing vine; compact but capable of long growth if supported
 
Flowers: Glossy white blooms with red-violet centers, sweetly scented especially in the evening
 
Bloom Season: Typically flowers in spring or summer under bright indoor light
Light Needs
 
Bright, indirect light promotes variegation and flowering
 
Avoid prolonged direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
 
Low light slows growth and may mute color contrasts
Watering Guidance
 
Water when the top 2 – 3 cm of soil dries out
 
Base frequency on temperature and light levels, not season
 
Ensure excellent drainage to avoid soggy roots
Humidity Levels
 
Prefers 50 – 60 % humidity or higher
 
Use grouped plants, pebble trays, or a humidifier if air is dry
Temperature Range
 
Thrives between 18 – 26 °C
 
Protect from cold air and sudden temperature shifts
Soil and Potting Mix
 
Use a mix of orchid bark, perlite, and cactus soil or potting mix
 
Always choose a pot with drainage holes; terracotta works well
Feeding Tips
 
Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed during active growth
 
Switch to a bloom-focused formula when flower buds develop
Support and Growth Habits
 
Train on trellises, moss poles, or let it trail from hanging containers
 
Prune lightly in spring to encourage fuller growth
Propagation Methods
 
Propagate via stem cuttings with at least one node and leaf pair
 
Let cuttings callous, then root in water, moss, or semi-hydro setups
Hydroponic Suitability
 
Performs well in LECA or pon with proper nutrient balance and root aeration
Toxicity Info
 
Mildly toxic if ingested; latex sap may irritate skin
 
Keep out of reach of pets and children
Common Problems and Solutions
Pests
 
Check for mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids
 
Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat; isolate if needed
Yellow or Pale Leaves
 
Usually a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency
Brown Leaf Tips or Curling
 
Often due to low humidity or inconsistent watering
Root Rot
 
Occurs in soggy, compact soil — repot in airy mix and reduce watering
Extra Tips for Thriving Growth
 
Do not remove peduncles — blooms reappear on the same flower stalks
 
Rotate occasionally for even leaf development
 
Gently wipe leaves to keep variegation clear and support photosynthesis
Etymology and Botanical Background
 
Genus:Hoya is named for Thomas Hoy, an 18th-century English gardener and botanist
 
Species:Hoya australis R.Br. ex J.Traill, published in Trans. Hort. Soc. London 7: 28 (1830)
 
Cultivar: ‘Lisa’ is an unregistered but widely cultivated variegated selection, especially popular since the early 2010s
 
Synonyms: Sometimes misidentified as Hoya australis ssp. tenuipes 'Lisa', though 'Lisa' is a cultivar of the species, not a subspecies
FAQs – Hoya australis 'Lisa'
 
Will it flower indoors?Yes, given bright light, consistent care, and preserved peduncles
 
Is the variegation light-dependent?No — it is genetically stable. Strong light improves contrast but doesn’t trigger color
 
Does it grow fast?Growth is moderate indoors, faster with warmth and high humidity
 
Can I grow it in LECA?Yes — just monitor moisture levels and flush nutrients monthly
 
Is it safe for pets?No — mildly toxic and sap may cause irritation
Order Hoya australis 'Lisa' now and enjoy its bold variegation, climbing elegance, and sweetly fragrant flowers — a tropical statement piece for any bright indoor corner.