Hoya carnosa 'Krimson Queen' – Variegated Elegance with a Fragrant Twist
Hoya carnosa 'Krimson Queen' is a beloved variegated cultivar of the classic wax plant. Its thick, fleshy leaves feature bold cream-white margins and vibrant green centers, with a flush of pink on fresh growth. Known for its fragrant star-shaped flowers and cascading vines, it combines low-maintenance care with standout color — perfect for both seasoned collectors and new plant parents.
Where Hoya 'Krimson Queen' Comes From
Hoya carnosa (L.f.) R.Br., published in 1810, is native to the subtropical regions of southern China, India, and Southeast Asia. It typically grows as an epiphyte or lithophyte in bright, filtered light at elevations up to 1200 m. 'Krimson Queen' is a stable, cultivated variegated form prized for its dramatic contrast and hardy nature indoors.
What Makes 'Krimson Queen' Stand Out?

 
Foliage: Glossy leaves with cream-white edges and occasional pink highlights on new growth.
 
Growth Style: Climbs with support or trails elegantly in hanging baskets or shelves.
 
Fragrant Flowers: Mature plants produce star-shaped, waxy blooms in pale pink with red centers.
 
Care Level: Extremely tolerant of indoor conditions, with minimal effort required.

How to Care for Hoya carnosa 'Krimson Queen'

 
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Tolerates medium light, but strong light enhances variegation. Avoid harsh direct sun.
 
Watering: Let the top 3 – 5 cm of soil dry before rewatering. Never allow the roots to sit in soggy substrate.
 
Humidity: Adapts well to standard indoor humidity. Thrives above 50% but doesn’t require misting.
 
Temperature: Prefers 18 – 26°C. Avoid exposure below 12°C and protect from cold drafts.
 
Soil Mix: Use a chunky, well-draining mix: 40% potting soil, 30% orchid bark, 30% perlite or pumice.
 
Potting: Terracotta pots with drainage holes are ideal. Repot only when root-bound (every 2 – 3 years).
 
Feeding: Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed. Flush the soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
 
Pruning: Trim vines for bushier growth. Never cut the peduncles — flowers return on the same ones.

Getting 'Krimson Queen' to Bloom
Blooms usually appear after 2 – 3 years under consistent care. Keep the plant slightly root-bound, provide bright light, and avoid over-fertilizing. Mature plants produce clusters of sweetly scented flowers that last for days and reappear from the same peduncles year after year.
Propagating Your Plant
Use 10 – 15 cm stem cuttings just below a node. Root in water, soil, or LECA. Place in a bright, warm spot with stable humidity. Roots develop within 2 – 4 weeks.
Can It Grow in Semi-Hydro?
Yes — ‘Krimson Queen’ adapts well to LECA or perlite setups. Just ensure consistent nutrient delivery and avoid letting the reservoir run dry. This method reduces the risk of pests and root rot, especially in warm indoor conditions.
Troubleshooting: What Can Go Wrong?

 
Yellowing Leaves: Often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Let the soil dry thoroughly between waterings.
 
Brown Tips: Usually from low humidity or erratic watering. Keep conditions stable.
 
No Blooms: Check lighting and pot size. Too much fertilizer can also delay flowering.
 
Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids may appear. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
 
Root Rot: Caused by compacted, wet soil. Repot in fresh, airy mix and reduce watering frequency.

Is Hoya 'Krimson Queen' Safe for Pets?
Hoya carnosa is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. Still, it's best to keep plants out of reach — especially for curious pets or children.
Why It’s Called 'Krimson Queen'
The genus Hoya honors botanist Thomas Hoy, while the species name carnosa means “fleshy” — a reference to the plant’s thick, waxy leaves. ‘Krimson Queen’ refers to the striking cream-variegated margins and subtle pink tones on emerging foliage.
Quick Answers to Common Questions

 
Does it need a lot of light? It prefers bright, indirect light but adapts to medium levels. Avoid full sun.
 
How often should I water? Wait until the top few centimeters of soil are dry. Avoid soggy roots.
 
What’s the best pot type? Terracotta with drainage holes — great for airflow and moisture control.

Ready to add creamy-pink elegance to your space? Order Hoya carnosa 'Krimson Queen' now and enjoy easy care, fragrant blooms, and bold variegation all year long.