Let’s be real — many of us have lost hours deep in a Pinterest spiral or scrolling through the ‘Hoya Tricolor vs Carnosa Krimson Queen’ hashtags on Instagram, inspecting and trying to decode their subtle differences like detectives.
Choosing between these two stunning cultivars isn’t just a decision — it’s a full-on horticultural dilemma that tests the heart of every plant lover, because many people think they are the same.
And that’s exactly where this article comes in — to cut through the scrolling chaos and provide you with a clear, straightforward breakdown of these two beauties.
What Is Hoya Tricolor?
If you’ve never encountered a Hoya Tricolor before, allow me to introduce you to a true show-off in the world of plants.
It’s a special type of Hoya Carnosa, a tropical vine from the warm, humid parts of Asia and Australia.
In the wild, Hoyas climb trees and sprawl around like nature’s own living artwork. Over time, plant lovers began cultivating her indoors, which is where the name “Tricolor” variety was born — known for its crazy-beautiful mix of pink, green, and creamy white leaves.
Hoyas belong to the Apocynaceae family, which is a fancy way of saying they’re related to milkweeds and other thick-leafed tropical plants. But honestly, you don’t need to know Latin to appreciate a Hoya Tricolor.
All you need to know is this: it’s tough, it’s forgiving, and it appears you spent far more time taking care of it than you actually did.
And there’s something undeniably satisfying about watching a young Hoya Tricolor come to life. Its new leaves emerge in soft, almost translucent shades of pink.
As they mature, they settle into creamy whites and dark greens, forming a layered tapestry of color across each vine. Unlike many houseplants that deliver one-note greenery, the Tricolor brings texture and contrast from every direction it grows.
But this vibrancy doesn’t come free. The Tricolor requires a bit more light to maintain its color palette.
Without sufficient brightness, it begins to fade—still beautiful, but not the knockout it could be. So, if your space has a well-lit corner or a sunny window that receives filtered light for most of the day, the Tricolor will reward you with growth and brilliance that you can’t ignore.
In terms of care, it’s refreshingly easygoing. Let the soil dry out between waterings, provide support if you want it to climb, and feed it lightly during the growing season. However, its true value lies in the life it brings to a room that might otherwise feel dull or muted. Think of it like jewelry for your bookshelf—functional, yet dazzling.
Carnosa Krimson Queen
If the Tricolor is a burst of expressive color, the Krimson Queen is the cool, calm counterpart.
Her leaves are glossy and smooth, centered in deep green and bordered with creamy whites or soft pinks.
Sometimes, she’ll throw a surprise your way—a stem with all-white or pale pink leaves that looks like it doesn’t belong.
Unlike the Tricolor, the Krimson Queen is a little more forgiving. She’ll tolerate lower light without losing too much of her charm. Her growth is also slightly faster, especially if you hang her up and let her vines spill freely.
She thrives in baskets and on high shelves, where she can do her thing without needing constant supervision.
From a care perspective, she’s even more laid back. Less dramatic when underwatered. Less picky about humidity.
And while she won’t flash as bright pink as the Tricolor, she brings a timeless elegance to any room she’s in. If you want something reliable, beautiful, and able to fit into different home styles, the Krimson Queen won’t disappoint.
Hoya Tricolor vs Carnosa Krimson Queen [4 Key Differences]
When you first see these two beauties, you might think they’re pretty similar.
And they are—up to a point.
But the closer you look, the more you notice they each have their own style, growth habits, and personality.
And today, we will compare both plants side-by-side so you can see for yourself their not-so-subtle differences.
1. Leaf Color and Variegation
The Hoya Tricolor wears its colors loud and proud.
Its leaves mix green, creamy white, and pink right across the surface. Some leaves are mostly pink, some mostly cream, and others are a patchwork of all three colors. No two leaves look exactly the same, which gives the whole plant a wild, colorful vibe.
Carnosa Krimson Queen, on the other hand, keeps things a little tidier.
Most of her leaves are solid green in the center, with creamy-white margins framing the edges. New growth often starts with a blush of pink, but overall, her look is more polished and structured compared to the playful chaos of the Tricolor.
2. Growth Habit and Size
Both plants are vigorous growers once they’re happy, but there’s a catch!
Tricolor tends to trail and climb with a little more wild energy. Its vines can grow pretty fast and long. And it doesn’t always grow in one neat direction, which is perfect if you like that full, cascading jungle look.
Meanwhile, Krimson Queen grows a bit more predictably.
Her vines are strong but slightly less chaotic, which makes her a great option if you want a cleaner, more organized trailing plant.
However, she’s also a little faster to fill out into a lush, full plant under good conditions
Also Read: When Is the BEST Time To Transplant Crepe Myrtles?
3. Flowering Potential
Both varieties can bloom with those signature Hoya star-shaped flowers, usually pinkish-white and sweetly fragrant.
But Tricolor can sometimes take a little longer to start blooming because it focuses a lot of its energy on leaf growth, especially if it’s in a new environment.
Krimson Queen blooms earlier once mature, if it gets enough light. Her flowers tend to cluster beautifully along the vines.
4. Light and Care Needs
In terms of care, you won’t find massive differences, but tiny nuances matter.
Both love bright, indirect light and need well-draining soil. However, Tricolor’s heavy variegation sometimes means it craves a bit more light to keep those pinks and creams vibrant.
Without enough light, it might revert to greener leaves over time.
Krimson Queen, however, is more forgiving with light. She’ll still appreciate bright conditions but can handle slightly lower light without losing her gorgeous margins. So, if you have a less sunny spot, the Queen might be the safer bet.
Bear in mind that both plants like to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is the FASTEST way to kill either of them.
The rule of thumb is:
- Watering once every 7–10 days during warmer months.
- Reduce to every 2–3 weeks during winter.
Pro Tip:
- Use a moisture meter or check the first 2 inches of soil before watering.
- Always use a well-draining mix—ideally, orchid mix with perlite.
- Feed both with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer.
What About Cost and Availability?
Over the last year, the houseplant market has been booming. According to a 2024 report, demand for variegated Hoyas increased by 18%, with Tricolor and Krimson Queen topping search trends.
The Tricolor tends to be priced a little higher because of its vivid variegation, often selling between $25 and $60, depending on size. The Krimson Queen, being slightly more common, usually sits in the $15 to $40 range.
But keep in mind—availability can vary widely depending on your region. And online plant shops like Pistils Nursery, The Sill, and Etsy shops that specialize in Hoyas can come in handy, as they are great places to source them.
Just make sure to check reviews and verify that the seller ships healthy, rooted plants.
Verdict |Hoya Tricolor vs Carnosa Krimson Queen
Made your decision yet?
The truth of the matter is:
Choosing between Hoya Tricolor vs Carnosa Krimson Queen comes down to a few core differences that make each plant a better fit depending on your space and lifestyle.
If your home has ample bright light, especially near large windows or in sunrooms, the Tricolor will thrive. It’s a great fit for people who love color and don’t mind spending a little extra time making sure their plant gets the attention it deserves.
On the flip side, if your space is a bit shadier—or if you’re just more of a “set it and forget it” type of plant parent—the Krimson Queen will probably suit you better. Her classic look fits in easily with most décor styles, and she’ll reward even minimal effort with lush growth.
And let’s not ignore the visual energy each brings. The Tricolor adds fun, vibrancy, and a bit of drama.
The Krimson Queen? She brings balance, grace, and quiet sophistication. Both are beautiful. But your personal aesthetic will likely favor one more than the other.
Frequently Asked Questions| Hoya Tricolor vs Carnosa Krimson Queen
1. Can I Grow Either Of These Hoyas Outdoors?
Yes—if you live in warm zones (USDA Zones 10–12).
These Hoyas thrive in tropical conditions, so anything below 50°F (10°C) can cause them stress. In cooler climates, keep them indoors or only move them outside during the summer. Just ensure they are shaded from harsh direct sunlight and protected from frost.
Outdoors = great. Freezer = bad. Keep them cozy!
2. Are These Hoyas Safe For My Pets?
Yes! Hoyas are non-toxic to cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA. However, chewing on them can lead to mild stomach upset. It’s best to keep them out of paw’s reach—especially if you have a curious kitty or a teething pup.
They’re pet-safe… but maybe not chew-toy safe.
3. Why Is My Hoya Tricolor Turning All Green?
This usually indicates that it’s not receiving enough light. The vibrant variegation fades when light levels are too low, causing the plant to produce plain green leaves for more efficient photosynthesis.
Solution: Move it closer to a bright window—filtered sunlight is best. Think spa treatment, not sunburn.
4. How Do I Propagate Either Plant? Is It Easy?
Super easy! Cut a vine with at least one node (that’s where the leaf meets the stem) and place it in water or moist soil. Roots typically appear within 2 to 4 weeks. Water propagation is enjoyable because you can see the roots forming—great for beginners!
A sharp pair of scissors, a glass of clean water, and patience are all you need.
5. Which Is Better For Beginners?
Krimson Queen. She’s less dramatic, adapts more easily to inconsistent watering or light, and grows fast enough to keep you encouraged.
Tricolor is still beginner-friendly but wants more attention and consistent light to thrive.
New to houseplants? The Queen will treat you kindly.