Hoya

Hoya carnosaAlso known as: Wax Plant, Wax Flower, Porcelain Flower, Hindu Rope

The Hoya carnosa is a beloved tropical vine known for its waxy, fragrant flower clusters and thick, succulent-like leaves. Native to Eastern Asia and Australia, it's a long-lived houseplant that can trail or climb. The star-shaped flowers produce sweet nectar and a heavenly fragrance.

Easy Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
50-85°F (10-29°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 10-14 days, when soil is mostly dry
Summer	Every 7-10 days
Fall	Every 14-21 days
Winter	Every 21-28 days, allow to dry well between waterings

Succulent-like leaves store water. Prefers to dry out between waterings. Very drought tolerant.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Weekly
Summer	1-2 times per week
Fall	Weekly
Winter	Optional, tolerates low humidity

Tolerates average humidity but appreciates occasional misting.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with high-phosphorus fertilizer for blooming
Summer	Every 2 weeks
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing

Phosphorus-rich fertilizer promotes flowering. Can bloom on same peduncle repeatedly.

Pruning

Frequency: Minimal

Best Season: After flowering

NEVER remove old flower peduncles - they bloom repeatedly. Trim long vines if desired.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2-3 years or when very rootbound

Best Season: Spring

Prefers being rootbound - encourages blooming. Use chunky, well-draining orchid-type mix.

Flowering

Season
Spring to summer, can bloom multiple times per year

Color
White, pink, or red star-shaped clusters

Fragrant, waxy flower clusters called umbels. Same peduncle blooms year after year - never remove it!

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings with at least one node
Water or soil propagation
Air layering for faster results

Common Problems

No flowers: Needs more light or to be slightly rootbound
Yellow leaves: Overwatering
Leaf drop: Cold temperatures or overwatering
Pests: Watch for mealybugs in leaf crevices

Pro Tips

Never remove flower peduncles - they bloom again
Needs to be slightly rootbound to flower
Can take years to bloom - patience is key
Flowers produce sweet nectar droplets

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