Botanical Name: Hoya australis
Common Name(s): Hoya Australis, Australian Wax Plant, Sweetheart Hoya, Wax Flower

The Hoya Australis is a popular and versatile species of Hoya native to Australia, and it is prized for its trailing vines, thick, waxy leaves, and fragrant rare clusters of star-shaped flowers. As a member of the Hoya genus, it shares the characteristic succulent-like qualities of its relatives, with thick, fleshy leaves that store water, making it a relatively low-maintenance plant. The Hoya Australis is known for being an easy grower, and its cascading growth habit makes it a perfect choice for hanging baskets, trellises, or as a trailing plant in a decorative pot.

The leaves of this Hoya  are elliptical to oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green, with a smooth texture that can take on a slightly waxy sheen when the plant is healthy. The plant's vines can grow long, trailing gracefully from containers or hanging baskets, making it a stunning addition to vertical spaces. When grown as a houseplant the Hoya Australis  typically reaches heights of 3–4 feet (90–120 cm), creating a lush, tropical look in any space. It can happily grow longer with proper care.

With this Hoya, the blooming flowers are small, star-shaped, and come together in large, spherical clusters. These clusters often range in color from white to pale pink or yellow, and they are sweetly fragrant, especially in the evening. The blossoms have a waxy texture, which is characteristic of Hoyas, and the plant may bloom several times a year if conditions are favorable. The flowers are not only visually striking but also give off a pleasant, subtle scent that adds to the plant's appeal.

In terms of light, the Hoya Australis thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate or even low light. However, the plant will grow more vigorously and produce more blooms if given optimal light. It is important to avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. While the plant will grow more slowly in low-light conditions, it is still relatively adaptable. Bright, indirect light for at least a few hours a day is ideal for this plant to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

As a succulent-like plant, it is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. The key to keeping this plant happy is allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is susceptible to root rot if kept too wet. Water the plant thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil has dried out. 

This Hoya species prefers a warm environment, with temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C) being ideal. It should be kept away from drafts, as sudden temperature changes or exposure to cold air can lead to leaf drop or stunted growth. Additionally, while this plant can tolerate average humidity levels, it thrives in slightly higher humidity. Placing the plant in a humid area like a bathroom or using a humidifier can encourage more robust growth, healthier leaves, and more frequent flowering.

The Hoya Australis is a slow-to-moderate grower, but with patience, it will become a stunning trailing plant. Its vines naturally grow long and elegant, and as it matures, the plant can develop a fuller, bushier look, with new shoots emerging along the stems. You can also prune the plant to control its size or shape, which will encourage new growth and more blooms.

Note: Like most Hoyas, the Hoya Australis is non-toxic to pets, making it a safe option for homes with cats, dogs, or other animals.