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Hoya

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Hoya

KNOWN AS: Hoya, Wax Plant, Porcelainflower

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Asia | Tropical & Subtropical

DESCRIPTION: The Hoya, or Wax Plant, is a beautiful vining plant cherished for its thick, waxy leaves and unique, star-shaped clusters of flowers. These plants are often grown in hanging baskets, where their long stems can trail beautifully. They are also known for being low-maintenance and are great for beginners.

Hoya Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

Hoya plants thrive in bright, indirect light. The more light they receive, the faster they will grow and the more likely they are to produce their beautiful blooms. While they can tolerate a few hours of direct morning sun, direct afternoon sunlight can easily scorch their leaves.

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Watering

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

Hoya plants are drought-tolerant and are very sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water thoroughly and allow the soil to become completely dry before watering again. It is better to underwater than to overwater. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 60º - 85º

Hoya plants prefer 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: 40 - 60%; Moderate Humidity

The Hoya 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
Hoya plants are 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 even a specialized medium like LECA. Allow the cut end of the stem to form a callus for a day or two before rooting to prevent rot.
Toxicity
The Hoya 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 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.
Pruning
Pruning is a great way to maintain the shape and health of your Hoya. 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.
Fertilizing
Hoya 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. 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.

Hanging Heights

Hoya Lighting Requirements: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

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