Hoya carnosa (Wax Plant / Porcelain Flower)

Hoya carnosa is a timeless, easy-care trailing houseplant known for its thick, glossy leaves and clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers. Often called the Wax Plant, it’s perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, and bright indoor spaces where its vines can gracefully cascade.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that rewards patience with stunning blooms, this is it.


Why You’ll Love It

  • 🌿 Thick, waxy leaves that store moisture (great for busy plant owners)

  • 🌸 Produces sweetly scented, star-shaped pink or white blooms

  • 🪴 Beautiful trailing growth — ideal for hanging baskets

  • 💧 Drought-tolerant once established

  • 🏡 Perfect for apartments, offices, and bright indoor rooms


Plant Features

  • Botanical Name: Hoya carnosa

  • Common Names: Wax Plant, Porcelain Flower

  • Plant Type: Evergreen trailing vine

  • Growth Habit: Cascading or climbing

  • Mature Length: 1–3 meters (can grow longer with support)

  • Flower Color: Pink, white, sometimes red-centered

  • Fragrance: Sweet, especially in the evening


Light Requirements

  • Prefers bright, indirect light

  • Can tolerate some gentle morning sun

  • Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which may scorch leaves

  • Too little light may reduce flowering


Watering Guide

  • Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings

  • Water thoroughly, then drain excess

  • Reduce watering in cooler months

  • Overwatering is the most common issue

Because of its thick leaves, Hoya carnosa stores water and tolerates short dry periods well.


Soil & Potting

  • Well-draining potting mix

  • Ideal mix: Indoor plant mix + orchid bark + perlite

  • Prefers to be slightly root-bound for better blooming

  • Use pots with drainage holes


Temperature & Humidity

  • Ideal temperature: 18–30°C

  • Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C

  • Average household humidity is sufficient

  • Appreciates moderate humidity but not essential


Flowering Tips

  • Bright light encourages blooms

  • Do not remove old flower spurs — new blooms grow from the same spot

  • Slightly root-bound plants tend to flower more reliably

  • Be patient — younger plants may take time to bloom


Ideal For

  • Hanging baskets

  • Shelving displays

  • Bright living rooms

  • Office desks

  • Beginner plant collectors

  • Low-maintenance indoor plant lovers


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hoya carnosa pet-friendly?
Generally considered non-toxic to pets, but ingestion may cause mild stomach upset. Always monitor curious pets.

How fast does it grow?
Moderate growth rate in good light. Growth slows in winter.

Why isn’t my Hoya flowering?
Most often due to insufficient light or being too young. Bright indirect light is key.


Care Level

⭐ Easy to Moderate
Perfect for beginners and collectors alike.

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