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Hoya Carnosa

SCENTIFIC NAME: Hoya carnosa

KNOWN AS: Hoya Wax Plant, Wax Plant, Porcelain flower

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Eastern Asia | Tropical & Subtropical

DESCRIPTION: The Hoya Wax Plant is the most common variety of Hoya, known for its thick, waxy, and often-variegated leaves. This vining plant is cherished for its clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers that appear when it is mature. Its robust nature makes it an excellent choice for beginner plant parents.

Hoya Carnosa Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

The Hoya Wax Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. The more light it receives, the more likely it is to produce its beautiful blooms. While it can tolerate a few hours of direct morning sun, direct afternoon sunlight can easily scorch its leaves.

Lighting Recommendations

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Vita™ Grow Light
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Color:

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Highland™ LED Track Light System
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White / 1 light / Narrow (36 Degrees) Black / 1 light / Narrow (36 Degrees)

Watering

Quick Tip: Allow soil to completely dry out before watering.

The Hoya Wax Plant is a succulent that stores water in its leaves and is highly sensitive to overwatering, which is the most common cause of root rot. Water thoroughly and allow the soil to become completely dry before watering again. Reduce watering in the fall and winter dormant season.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 65º - 85º

The Hoya Wax Plant prefers warm, stable temperatures. The ideal range is between 60-85°F. Keep your plant away from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes, as these can cause stress and prevent the plant from flowering.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 50 - 60%; Moderate Humidity

The Hoya Wax Plant is a tropical plant that appreciates moderate to high humidity. You can increase the humidity around your plant by misting its leaves, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a tray of pebbles with water.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
The Hoya Wax Plant is easily propagated by stem cuttings. Take a cutting with at least one or two leaf nodes. You can root the cutting in a glass of water, a moist potting mix, or directly in soil. Allow the cut end of the stem to form a callus for a day or two before rooting to prevent rot.
Toxicity
The Hoya Wax Plant is non-toxic to humans and animals. This plant is generally considered safe for households with children and pets. While it is non-toxic, consuming large amounts of any plant material can cause minor stomach upset.
Repotting
The Hoya Wax Plant is a slow grower and prefers to be a bit pot-bound, as this encourages them to bloom. Repotting is only necessary every 2-3 years, or when the roots have filled the pot. Select a new pot that is only slightly larger than the current one and has drainage holes. Use fresh, well-draining soil and carefully place the plant in the new pot, filling in the sides with fresh soil.
Pruning
Pruning is a great way to maintain the shape and health of your Hoya Wax Plant. Trim any dead or damaged stems or leaves. You can also prune to control the length of the vines. Do not prune the peduncles (the spurs where flowers have grown). The plant will re-bloom from the same spot year after year.
Fertilizer
Hoya Wax Plants are not heavy feeders. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is ideal. A fertilizer higher in phosphorus can encourage blooms. Fertilize once a month during the spring and summer growing season. Do not fertilize during the fall and winter.
Soil
The right soil is crucial for a healthy Hoya Wax Plant. The plant requires a well-draining, airy soil mix. A good mix is potting soil amended with perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage. Always use a pot with a drainage hole to ensure excess water can escape and prevent root rot.

Hanging Heights

Hoya Carnosa Lighting Requirements: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

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