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Hoya carnosa
Family: Apocynaceae
Category: Perennial
AKA: "Porcelain Flower," "Wax Plant"
Growth: Vine/Trailing
Native to: Southern China, Laos, Japan, Taiwan
Name: Carnosa means "fleshy," a reference to the succulent-like leaves.
Hoya Carnosa Basics
What Does Hoya Carnosa Look Like?
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Leaves: Thick, waxy, and deep green, often with subtle flecks of silver. Some varieties feature cream or pink variegation for added charm.
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Growth Habit: A climbing or trailing vine that can be trained on a trellis or allowed to cascade gracefully from a hanging basket.
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Flowers: Star-shaped clusters of pink or white blossoms with a sweet fragrance, earning it the nickname porcelain flower. These blooms often appear in late spring and summer under the right conditions.
Related: When Will My Hoya Bloom?
Hoyas have vines that can be supported on a trellis or allowed to trail.
Simple Care Guide for Hoya Carnosa
Hoya's are fairly low-maintenance, provided you tick a few boxes:
Light
Bright, indirect light is ideal. It can adapt to lower light, but flowering is more likely when it receives several hours of gentle sunlight each day. Put your Hoya near an East-facing window covered with sheers. To encourage flowering, let it get as much light as possible without scorching.
Watering
Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out between waterings. Hoya carnosa is somewhat drought-tolerant thanks to its succulent-like leaves, so overwatering should be avoided.
Soil
A well-draining mix is essential. A blend designed for orchids or succulents works well, as it prevents soggy roots.
Humidity & Temperature
Hoyas thrive in moderate to high humidity and prefer temperatures between 60–85°F. They adapt easily to typical indoor conditions but appreciate the occasional misting.
Fertilizer
During the growing season (spring through summer), feed monthly with a balanced, diluted houseplant fertilizer to encourage healthy leaves and blooms.
SOIL TIP: Aim for a 3:1 ratio of inorganic matter to organic matter. Example: 75% bark chips, perlite, sand, or charcoal and 25% coconut noir or peat.
