Hoya (Wax) Plant Care: What to Know

This video tells you all about successfully growing Hoya carnosa, which is commonly called wax plant. This beautiful, easy-to-grow plant has waxy, gorgeous, scented flowers when it blooms. Find out how to have luck growing hoya in your home, including getting the plant to flower. Discover the type of lighting hoya requires, as well as fertilizing and watering. Everything you need to know to grow healthy wax plants indoors.

Video on variegated houseplants: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXy8W…

 

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Hello and welcome to Healthy Houseplants Calm, where we teach you all about gardening in the great indoors. Today’s video is sponsored by an Amazon affiliate link, which you’ll find in the description below. Also, check the description for any links to videos mentioned during this video.

Today, I’m excited to talk about the wax plant, also known as Hoya carnosa. This beautiful plant is very easy to grow and has thick leaves, so if you forget to water it, it can still thrive. Of course, if you forget for too long, it might suffer, but it generally tolerates drought better than many other plants.

When it does flower, which can be unpredictable, it produces stunning waxy flowers that have a lovely fragrance. The flowers are not only eye-catching but also emit a pleasant scent, especially at night, though you might catch a whiff during the day as well.

Native to southern India and found throughout eastern Asia and Australia, the Hoya carnosa was named in honor of Thomas Hoy, a gardener for the Duke of Northumberland. His friend, Scottish botanist Robert Brown, named the plant Hoya in recognition of Hoy’s 40 years of service.

There are about a hundred species of Hoya, with the most commonly grown indoors being Hoya carnosa. This variety often features pink and white blooms, with some varieties showing purple and yellow hues. Many have variegated leaves, adding extra visual interest.

This plant is ideal for trailing, climbing, or vining. You can train it to grow up a trellis or let it cascade from a hanging basket. The stems have little nodes that can produce new plants if they touch soil. For indoor gardening, it’s best suited for mild climates like those in Southern California or Florida.

Plant Hoya carnosa in a well-draining potting soil that retains moisture but drains well. It’s best to use a pot that is slightly smaller than the root system to encourage blooming. Overly large pots can inhibit flowering. Ensure the soil is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

Hoya carnosa requires bright light to bloom. Use fluorescent or full-spectrum grow lights to simulate daylight, aiming for 8 to 10 hours of light each day. Place the plant near a southern or eastern window, but avoid direct sun exposure that might burn the leaves.

Once the plant starts flowering, try not to move it, as this can cause the buds to drop. Also, avoid watering excessively during this time. Keep the plant away from breezy conditions and heating or air-conditioning vents to prevent bud drop.

Fertilize your Hoya carnosa every one to two months with a well-balanced organic fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming. Enjoy the beauty and fragrance of this easy-to-grow plant!

Thank you for watching. Please leave any comments about indoor gardening tutorials you’d like to see. Remember to like, comment, subscribe, and share this video!

Hoya Carnosa FAQ

Hoya Carnosa FAQ

What is Hoya carnosa?

Hoya carnosa, also known as the wax plant, is a beautiful, easy-to-grow indoor plant with thick leaves that can tolerate periods of drought.

What are the characteristics of Hoya carnosa flowers?

Hoya carnosa flowers are waxy and fragrant, with an unpredictable blooming schedule. They emit a pleasant scent, especially at night, but may also be noticeable during the day.

Where is Hoya carnosa native to?

Hoya carnosa is native to southern India and can also be found throughout eastern Asia and Australia. It was named in honor of Thomas Hoy, a gardener for the Duke of Northumberland.

How many species of Hoya are there?

There are about a hundred species of Hoya, with Hoya carnosa being the most commonly grown indoors. It features pink and white blooms, sometimes with purple and yellow hues, and many varieties have variegated leaves.

What is the best way to grow Hoya carnosa indoors?

Hoya carnosa thrives in well-draining potting soil that retains moisture but also drains well. It is best to use a pot slightly smaller than the root system to encourage blooming. Avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

How much light does Hoya carnosa need?

Hoya carnosa requires bright light to bloom. Use fluorescent or full-spectrum grow lights to simulate daylight, aiming for 8 to 10 hours of light each day. It should be placed near a southern or eastern window, but avoid direct sunlight that can burn the leaves.

How should I care for Hoya carnosa during its blooming period?

Once Hoya carnosa starts blooming, avoid moving the plant as this can cause the buds to drop. Also, refrain from excessive watering during this time and keep the plant away from breezy conditions and heating or air-conditioning vents.

How often should I fertilize Hoya carnosa?

Fertilize Hoya carnosa every one to two months with a well-balanced organic fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.