Porcelainflower - Hoya carnosa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Porcelainflower

Also known as: Rope hoya

The porcelainflower is a flowering species native to East Asia and Australia. Porcelainflower is commonly valued as a houseplant for its ability to purify indoor air quality. Porcelainflower produces nectar and can attract pollinators.

Scientific classification

Species

Porcelainflower (Hoya carnosa)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

6 m

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

1.5 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Green, Red, White, Pink, Cream

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Porcelainflower

Distribution of Porcelainflower

Distribution Map

Porcelainflower is native to China, neighboring countries in the South China Sea, and Japan. It has also been introduced into several other Asian countries. Its original ecosystem is in hot, humid conditions, typically growing in subtropical forests.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Humid subtropical forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The long flowering season of porcelainflower lasts from spring to autumn when planted in sunny tropical gardens. Its colorful blooms and vibrant green foliage make it a decorative addition to any garden. You can also plant it in a pot and keep it in a tropical greenhouse or in a room where you can enjoy its vibrant flowers.

Symbolism

Youthfulness, wealth, protection

Interesting Facts

Porcelainflower flowers are hugged together in clusters to form a spherical shape. It looks like a cluster of flowers. Most porcelainflower flowers are white, and their hearts are red, just like the faces of young girls, who are smart and shy.

Name Story

Wax plant||Porcelainflower: This tropical indoor plant is often called a “Wax plant” due to its thick waxy leaves. It is a classic plant because it lives forever, and it can grow enormously. Furthermore, it can create beautiful, porcelain-like fragrant flower clusters which is why it is also called Porcelainflower.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Porcelainflower, including the following common varieties :

Porcelain Flower 'Krimson Queen'Porcelainflower 'Tricolor'

Toxicity

Porcelainflower contains mild toxins in its latex-filled sap and leaves. Ingestion may be harmful to some, especially those with latex allergies. Severity varies by amount ingested and individual size. Handling porcelainflower can also cause skin irritation but it is not toxic when inhaled.

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Quickly Identify Porcelainflower

Thick, dark-green ovate leaves, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long with silver or creamy variegation.

Fragrant, light pink flowers with star-shaped centers, forming dense spherical clusters.

Vining spread can reach 12-15 feet (3.7-4.5 meters) with sweet-smelling blooms.

Star-shaped white flowers with faint pink tints, hairy texture, and sweet fragrance.

Small, dry, dehiscent fruit pods less than 0.4 inches (1 cm) in length, releasing seeds.

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Care Guide for Porcelainflower

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Porcelainflower prefers high humidity and drought tolerance, needing careful moisture management to avoid root rot. Water every three weeks, allowing soil to dry between. Often grown indoors, porcelainflower thrives with misting or a pebble tray to boost humidity.

Fertilize: For optimal porcelainflower health, feed with Succulents and Cacti Food bi-weekly at half strength during growth phases (spring to fall), reducing to monthly in winter. Use well-draining pots to avoid nutrient buildup and prevent root damage from over-fertilization.

Pruning: The porcelainflower requires no pruning, as new growth emerges from its tendrils. Light trimming is permitted in early spring to manage size or remove dead growth, but avoid heavy pruning, which can harm the plant. Pruning outside this timeframe is not recommended.

Propagation: Porcelainflower, part of the Asclepiadaceae family, is best propagated through 4-6 inch cuttings with two or more leaves. Use a sterilized tool, remove bottom leaves, and let the cut end dry. Dipping in rooting hormone and planting in well-draining soil with consistent moisture aids rooting.

Repotting: Repot porcelainflower in spring, ideally every 2 years in a pot 1-2 inches larger. Use well-draining containers and provide indirect light with consistent moisture to promote healthy growth and the development of its beautiful, waxy flowers.

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Images of Porcelainflower

Distribution of Porcelainflower

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Porcelainflower

Care Guide for Porcelainflower

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