How to care for Wax Flower

How to care for Hoya

Our tips for growing it healthy and strong

Hoya carnosa, also known as Hoya, is a semi-succulent evergreen climbing plant prized for its waxy leaves and fragrant flowers. At our company, we consider it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an indoor plant that combines beauty and easy care.

The right spot

Hoya loves bright light, but it's important to protect it from direct summer sun, which could damage its leaves. A spot with filtered light is ideal for encouraging lush growth and abundant flowering.

When and how to water it

To keep your Hoya carnosa healthy, it is essential to water it thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain away. In winter, wait until the compost is fairly dry before watering, but don't let it dry out completely. This will help prevent root rot.

Temperature and humidity

Hoya carnosa thrives in an environment with temperatures between 16°C and 24°C. It loves a humid atmosphere, so if the air is too dry, consider increasing the ambient humidity for its well-being.

The right fertilizer

During spring and summer, we recommend feeding your plant every 14 days with a balanced orchid fertilizer, preferably urea-free. This supports growth and flowering.

The pot and soil

For the wax plant, choose a very well-draining, well-aerated compost. A mix of orchid compost, peat-free multipurpose compost, and coarse material is ideal for ensuring good drainage and adequate root aeration.

How to propagate it

Hoya carnosa can be propagated successfully by air layering or semi-hardwood cuttings, preferably in spring or early summer. These methods produce new, vigorous, healthy plants.

Our final tip

Hoya carnosa is a plant that rewards patience with spectacular blooms. Give it consistent care and a suitable environment, and it will reward you with moments of beauty and fragrance. Remember to inspect it regularly to prevent mealybug infestations.

— Giulia's Gardens

Verified care information

This information comes directly from the validated botanical profile used to generate the guide.

Light

bright filtered light · bright light, protected from the intense summer sun

Watering

water with complete drainage · in winter, wait until the compost is quite dry, without letting it dry out completely

Temperature

16 °C ideal minimum · 24 °C ideal maximum · 16 °C minimum tolerated

Humidity

moist

Fertilizing

balanced orchid fertilizer, preferably urea-free · spring-summer · every 14 days

Propagation

air layering, semi-hardwood cuttings · In spring or early summer.