Hoya carnosa
Hoya carnosa
Wax Plant
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Taxonomy
Family Apocynaceae · Genus Hoya
Common Names
Wax PlantPorcelain FlowerHindu Rope Plant
Context
nativeRegion
Eastern Asia (China, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia) and Australia.
usdaZones
10-12 (outdoors); widely grown as a houseplant in cooler zones.
companionPlants
Philodendron, Monstera, Epipremnum, Orchid
culturalUses
Popular ornamental for its fragrant, showy flowers; cultivated indoors worldwide.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect sunlight; tolerates some direct sun but prefers filtered light.
WateringAllow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter.
SoilWell-draining, airy mix such as orchid bark, perlite, and peat or coco coir.
FertilizerFeed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity, but tolerates average indoor levels.
TemperatureThrives at 60-85°F (15-29°C); protect from frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, vining epiphyte or lithophyte with waxy leaves and clusters of fragrant flowers.
Mature SizeUp to 4-6 feet indoors, much longer in ideal conditions with support.
Growth RateModerate; faster with optimal light and humidity.
BloomingTypically blooms spring to fall when mature; umbel-shaped, pink-white fragrant flowers.
DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in cooler months.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Layering
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune to control size and shape after flowering; avoid removing peduncles (flower spurs).
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when rootbound; prefers to be slightly pot-bound.
Pests & DiseasesCan be prone to mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot if overwatered.
ToxicityMildly toxic to pets if ingested.