Here is a detailed overview of the Hoja, a fascinating houseplant. There are several species, the most common being Hoja carnosa and Hoja bella. The Carnosa is easier to care for, has longer stems and larger leaves, while the Bella has shorter stems and smaller leaves.
Hoja flowers form unique clusters and appear to be covered in wax. They give off an intense, honey-like scent, especially at night. However, due to the intensity of the smell, it is not advisable to have them in the bedroom.
When it comes to care, it is important not to water them too much, because Hoja is more likely to tolerate too little water than too much. In summer, you should water them once or twice a week, in winter it is enough to water them every two weeks. In addition, the Hoja does not like it when it is often moved.
Young hojas should be repotted annually, older ones don’t like it so much unless the pot is too small.
Sometimes Hoja does not flower, which can have many reasons, such as a substrate that is too moist, lack of light or intense sunlight, or even very low temperatures.
This plant rarely suffers from diseases or pests. If symptoms appear, such as loss of flowers, a white coating on the leaves, or wrinkled leaves, it could be a sign of overwatering and a fungal problem.
Propagating hoja is simple: just cut off a piece of the stem with at least a few leaves and place it in water or directly in the soil. Soon you will have a new plant.
Also known as the “Christ Crown,” the hoja is a hardy plant that, according to popular vernacular, brings good luck and blessings wherever it can be found.