Hoya carnosa

Common Names

Wax Plant, Porcelain Flower, Honey Plant, Hindu Rope Plant

Summary

Wax plant, commonly called porcelain flower, is an evergreen epiphytic climber native to East Asia and Australia, with thick waxy leaves and long trailing vines, it bears fragrant star-shaped flowers arranged in umbels that are pink or white with red centers, in cultivation bright indirect light and a well-draining soil are essential, water when the top inch dries, and keep temperatures around 60–85°F with humidity roughly 40–60%, fertilize monthly in the growing season and propagate easily from stem cuttings, it benefits from being slightly rootbound and should be repotted every 2–3 years, commonly used in hanging baskets or as a climbing specimen, and is non-toxic to humans and pets, though watch for mealybugs.

Lifecycle

Perennial (annual in colder areas)

Height

12-20 feet

Spread

3-6 ft

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial sun.

Soil Type

Well-draining, airy soil, often cactus, orchid, or perlite-based mixes.

Soil Drainage

Well-draining, airy soil that does not stay soggy

Soil pH

6.1-7.5 pH (slightly acidic to neutral)

Bloom Color

Pink and white

Bloom Time

Spring to Fall

Foliage Color

Green (ranging from dark green to deep green; sometimes with faint white speckles; variegated forms have white leaves edged in green).

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow growth overall, with active growth during warm, bright months and slower growth in low light.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts moths