Hoya carnosa 'Tricolor' (Krimson Princess) D14

Hoya carnosa 'Rubra' (KRIMSON PRINCESS) is a classic cultivar with central variegation, easily recognized by its green margins and the cream or yellow areas in the middle of the leaf. Young foliage may develop pink, red, or purple tones, while the stems often have reddish hues. The plant produces long vines, suitable for trailing growth or training onto a support, and may produce umbels of fragrant, pale pink, waxy flowers once mature.

Horticultural identity

The accepted cultivar name is Hoya carnosa 'Rubra'. KRIMSON PRINCESS is the historical trade name used by B.L. Cobia for this cultivar, not a botanical synonym or the cultivar name. 'Rubra' originated as a sport on Hoya carnosa 'Tricolor' at Barnell L. Cobia's nursery in Winter Garden, Florida, and was described in U.S. patent USPP3105, published in 1972.

Hoya carnosa 'Tricolor' is a distinct cultivar with variegation concentrated along the leaf margins, historically marketed under the name KRIMSON QUEEN. The specimen presented for this product has central variegation, characteristic of the 'Rubra' cultivar.

Foliage and growth habit

The leaves are thick, glossy, and oval, with an irregular central area that may be cream, yellow, or pale green, surrounded by green margins. New growth may display persistent shades of pink, red, reddish brown, or purple, which fade as the leaves mature. The proportion and pattern of the variegation naturally vary from one leaf to another and from one specimen to another.

The vines can be allowed to trail from a hanging pot or trained onto a support. Their length varies from one specimen to another, depending on the season and production batch.

Flowers and fragrance

Once mature, the plant may produce umbels of waxy flowers ranging from pale pink to purplish pink, with a darker center. The flowers are fragrant, and the intensity and nuances of the fragrance may vary depending on the time of day and growing conditions.

Potting mix and care guide

Potting mix: use an airy, well-draining mix suitable for epiphytic species. We recommend the professional potting mix for Hoya and Anthurium - SG Mix.

For complete recommendations on light, watering, potting mix, fertilization, propagation, and flowering, read the complete Hoya care guide.