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How to Grow Hoya and Anthurium Companion Growing
Hoya and Anthurium Companion Growing
Hoya spp. & Anthurium spp.
houseplantHoya (wax plant) and Anthurium (flamingo flower) are tropical houseplants that can thrive together in bright indoor locations. Both are epiphytic or semi-epiphytic plants that prefer indirect bright light and benefit from similar humidity and watering conditions. Growing them as companions creates a lush, tropical indoor garden aesthetic.
When should you plant Hoya and Anthurium Companion Growing in your zone?
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Example Hoya and Anthurium Companion Growing timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Hoya and Anthurium Companion Growing
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Hoya and Anthurium Companion Growing
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growth Stages
Establishment (Initial Growth)
2-4 weeksNew cuttings or young plants acclimate to indoor environment; minimal growth visible; foliage may be pale or stressed
Place in bright indirect light; maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F); avoid overwatering; use rooting hormone for cuttings; maintain 50-70% humidity with pebble trays or humidifier
Vegetative Growth
2-6 months ongoingHealthy new leaf emergence; stems lengthen; Hoya becomes trailing or climbing; Anthurium develops larger leaves with deeper splits
Maintain consistent bright indirect light; water when soil surface dries (Hoya every 10-14 days, Anthurium every 7-10 days); monthly dilute fertilizer (NPK 3-1-2 or orchid formula); rotate plants weekly for even growth; prune leggy growth to encourage bushiness
Pre-flowering Development
4-8 weeks before first flowersPlant matures and produces flower buds; Hoya develops star-shaped umbels or peduncles; Anthurium forms characteristic waxy spathe
Increase bright light to 4-5 hours direct morning sun if possible; maintain warm nights (60-65°F); reduce nitrogen, increase phosphorus (flowering fertilizer); avoid moving plant frequently; ensure high humidity (60-80%); do not remove flower stems on Hoya as they reflower from same nodes
Flowering & Fruiting
4-8 weeks per flowering cycle; Anthurium flowers year-round if conditions met; Hoya flowers spring-summerHoya displays fragrant, waxy star clusters (pink, red, white, or yellow depending on variety); Anthurium displays glossy spathe (typically red, pink, or white) with visible spadix; flowers last 2-4 weeks
Maintain bright light without direct intense afternoon sun; keep temperatures consistent (avoid cold drafts); maintain high humidity; continue regular watering but avoid wetting flowers; fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced formula; deadhead spent Anthurium spathes to encourage new blooms; preserve Hoya flower stems for reflowering
Dormancy & Rest
2-4 months (winter months)Winter slowdown (though houseplants may have reduced dormancy); slower growth; reduced flowering in some varieties
Reduce watering frequency slightly; maintain bright light despite shorter days; reduce fertilizer to monthly or discontinue; maintain temperature above 60°F; reduce humidity slightly (still 50%+); prune dead foliage and spent stems; this is ideal time for repotting
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol or neem oil weekly; isolate infected plant; inspect leaf axils and stems regularly
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Increase humidity with frequent misting; spray leaves with water; apply neem oil or miticide every 7-10 days; ensure good air circulation
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Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; treat every 2 weeks until clear
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Isolate plant; spray with insecticidal soap or spinosad; improve air circulation; monitor closely
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Allow soil to dry more between waterings; repot into fresh, well-draining medium; remove affected roots; reduce watering frequency; improve drainage
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Remove affected leaves; avoid wetting foliage; improve air circulation; use distilled water; sterilize pruning tools; do not overwater
Uses
Indoor Air Purification
HouseholdBoth Hoya and Anthurium help filter indoor air by absorbing toxins like formaldehyde and ammonia through their foliage and root systems. Studies suggest tropical houseplants improve indoor air quality and contribute to healthier indoor environments. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftAnthurium spathes and Hoya umbels make exceptional long-lasting cut flowers for tropical-themed arrangements and floral design. Anthurium flowers remain fresh 2-3 weeks in water; Hoya flowers last 2-4 weeks and smell delightfully fragrant. [source]
Ornamental Edible Flowers
CulinaryWhile primarily ornamental, Hoya flowers are technically edible and produce sweet nectar that some cultures use in traditional beverages. Anthurium spathes are not commonly eaten but are food-safe to touch and handle. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalVarious Hoya species have been used in traditional Southeast Asian and Pacific medicine to treat respiratory issues and inflammation. Anthurium species have been studied for potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in ethnobotanical research. [source]
Pollinator-Friendly Houseplants
WildlifeWhen flowering indoors, Hoya and Anthurium can attract small insects and pollinators if grown near windows or in semi-outdoor spaces. The fragrant Hoya blooms are particularly attractive to bees and beneficial insects seeking nectar. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
No harvesting in traditional sense; cut flowers or inflorescences last 2-4 weeks in water; Hoya flowers are fragrant and can be enjoyed on the plant or cut for indoor arrangements (flowers reflect light beautifully); Anthurium spathes stay fresh on plant for 6-8 weeks and can be cut for long-lasting floral arrangements; prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; remove yellowed leaves regularly
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Hoya flowers produce copious amounts of nectar to attract specific pollinator species; some varieties smell like chocolate, jasmine, or almonds at different times of day, and individual flowers can flower multiple times over 5+ years from the same peduncle (flower stem)
- 🌱 Anthurium spathes are technically modified leaves (bracts), not true flowers; the actual flowers are tiny and arranged on the central spadix; some Anthurium varieties can live 40+ years indoors with proper care
- 🌱 Both plants are epiphytic in nature, meaning they naturally grow on tree branches in rainforests without soil, which explains why they thrive in loose, bark-based potting mixes and prefer not to sit in heavy, compacted media
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