Hoya carnosa ‘Regalis’ ('Compacta' Variegata) – Twisted Variegation, Timeless Appeal
Hoya carnosa ‘Regalis’, often sold as Hoya compacta variegata, is a variegated cultivar of the curled-leaf form of Hoya carnosa. Its thick, rope-like vines are adorned with creamy white or yellow variegation, offering a sculptural, slow-growing houseplant that thrives with minimal care. This cultivar combines bold foliage with occasional fragrant blooms, making it a statement piece in any collection.
What Makes Hoya ‘Regalis’ Stand Out?

 
Distinctive Leaves: Thick, twisted vines with waxy foliage and dramatic white-edged variegation.
 
Trailing or Climbing Habit: Can be displayed in hanging baskets or trained on a support structure.
 
Fragrant Flowers: Clusters of star-shaped, pale pink flowers with a sweet scent. Blooms emerge from persistent peduncles — do not remove them.
 
Compact Growth: Slow to moderate indoor growth, ideal for shelves, trellises, or small spaces.

Key Facts About Hoya carnosa ‘Regalis’

 
Taxonomy: Cultivar of Hoya carnosa, not a separate species. The name Hoya compacta is a horticultural misnomer.
 
Natural Habitat: Parent species native to Southeast Asia; this curled-leaf mutation was developed in cultivation.
 
Growth Rate: Slow-growing; 5 – 15 cm annually indoors under ideal light.
 
Toxicity: Not considered toxic, but ingestion may irritate pets — keep out of reach.

How to Care for Hoya carnosa ‘Regalis’

 
Light: Bright, indirect light enhances variegation. Too little light may cause fading or slowed growth.
 
Watering: Allow soil to dry fully between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
 
Humidity: Adapts to household levels but prefers 50 – 60% humidity. Avoid misting directly onto curled leaves.
 
Temperature: Thrives at 18 – 26 °C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10 °C.
 
Soil: Use a breathable, chunky mix with perlite, bark, and coco coir for excellent drainage.
 
Fertilizing: Feed monthly in the growing season with a diluted liquid fertilizer.
 
Hydroponics: Adapts well to semi-hydroponic setups using inert media.
 
Propagation: Take stem cuttings with one or two nodes. Root in water or airy soil mix under bright light.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

 
Yellowing Leaves: Usually due to overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust your routine and substrate.
 
Leaf Curling or Wrinkling: Often caused by underwatering or inconsistent humidity.
 
No Flowers: Insufficient light is the main reason. Ensure bright indirect exposure and don’t cut peduncles.
 
Pests: Mealybugs, mites, or scale can hide in curled foliage. Use insecticidal soap or beneficial insects.

Tips for Success

 
Placement: Keep near a bright east- or south-facing window, out of direct sun.
 
Repotting: Only when root-bound. Avoid oversized pots that hold moisture.
 
Cleaning: Dust leaves gently with a soft brush — avoid water buildup in crevices.
 
Stability: Don’t move the plant frequently. Consistency helps it adapt and bloom.

Etymology and Origin of ‘Regalis’
Hoya is named for 18th-century botanist Thomas Hoy. The cultivar name ‘Regalis’ (Latin for “royal”) refers to its white-edged foliage. It was introduced by Cobia Nurseries in the mid-20th century and is closely related to ‘Mauna Loa’, which has a pale center instead of white edges.
Frequently Asked Questions

 
How do I get it to bloom? Provide bright indirect light, don’t overpot, and never cut flower peduncles.
 
Can I grow it in low light? It will survive, but variegation fades. Flowering is unlikely without strong light.
 
Is it pet-safe? Not officially toxic, but always place out of reach to protect both plant and pet.

Order Hoya carnosa ‘Regalis’ Today
Bring home Hoya carnosa ‘Regalis’ and enjoy twisted vines, elegant variegation, and easy-care charm. Ideal for any plant lover seeking bold foliage with minimal fuss — only at Foliage Factory.