wax plant

Also known as: fleshy-leaved wax flower; porcelain flower

A vigorous evergreen stem-rooting climber to 5m, with rigid, fleshy dark green leaves and umbels of night-scented, waxy, red-centred, white or pale pink flowers 15mm across

Scientific classification

Species: wax plant (Hoya carnosa)
Genus: Hoya
Family: Apocynaceae

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Toxicity: Houseplants · Climber Wall Shrub · Conservatory Greenhouse
Plant type: 4-8 metres
Height: 1-1.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Climbing
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: 18 – 27 °C
Ideal temperature

wax plant pictures

Distribution of wax plant

Distribution map

Central China to Australia

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of wax plant

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wax plant care guide

Water thoroughly then let soil dry out completely
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: 18 – 27 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Water thoroughly then let soil dry out completely

Fertilizing

Very dilute low nitrogen feed during warm growth only

Pruning

Routine pruning is unnecessary; shorten overlong shoots to fit the available space. For last-year flowering growth, prune after flowering; for current-year flowering growth, prune in late winter or spring. This guidance is for established plants.

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or by layering

Growing

Grow outdoors in moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered, frost-free area with protection from drying winds. Grow under glass in loam-based compost in bright filtered light. Maintain moderate humidity. Provide support. See hoya cultivation

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