Wax plant - Hoya cordata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Wax plant

Also known as: Hoya plant, Porcelain flower, Waxvine, Green wax plant

Wax plant (Hoya cordata) is a succulent, perennial vine that requires full sun to partial shade in tropical areas and to be kept indoors in cooler temperatures. Its evergreen leaves are shiny and waxy, giving it its common name. Fragrant clusters of star-shaped flowers bloom in spring and summer. Flower spurs should remain on the plant to encourage prolific blooming. This plant prefers being root bound.

Scientific classification

Species

Wax plant (Hoya cordata)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Yellow

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Wax plant

Distribution Map

Wax plant is indigenous to the subtropical regions of eastern Asia. While it naturally occurs in this limited area, it has been introduced and cultivated in various other temperate and tropical regions worldwide. Its ability to thrive in a range of environments has aided its spread beyond its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Limestone forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Best known as a low-maintenance tabletop or hanging houseplant, wax plant can also be grown outdoors in exciting ways as long as the climate is suitable - tropical or subtropical. It is more likely to produce its trademark waxy flowerheads when growing in an outdoor garden. Outside, it can be trained to grow as a vine, for example as a topiary over patios.

Symbolism

Good luck, best wishes of lasting success

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Care Guide for Wax plant

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wax plant flourishes in high humidity and prefers consistent moisture, with a watering schedule of every three weeks. Ideally suited for indoor environments, this evergreen plant maintains lush foliage year-round due to its water retention abilities.

Fertilize: Fertilize wax plant bi-weekly with diluted succulents and cacti food during the growing season; switch to monthly in winter. Over-fertilization harms wax plant. Use water-soluble fertilizer on moist soil to avoid root burn, aligning feeding with wax plant's growth cycle for optimal results.

Pruning: Pruning wax plant is generally unnecessary; it grows new foliage and flowers from tendril ends. Light trimming can control size or remove dead growth, best done in early spring as it enters the growing season. Avoid pruning at other times to protect plant health.

Propagation: Wax plant is an appealing houseplant known for its lush foliage. To propagate, cut a healthy stem below a node, ensuring it has two leaves. Allow the cut end to callous before planting in well-draining soil, favoring high humidity and warmth for root development.

Repotting: Repot 'wax plant' every two years in spring using a slightly larger pot to support root growth. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and resume watering once new growth emerges. Proper potting and careful post-repotting care are crucial for 'wax plant's health.

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