Contents
Description
Hoya Carnosa, also known as the Wax Plant, is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia and Australia. It is a popular house plant known for its waxy leaves and fragrant flowers. The plant’s leaves are dark green and fleshy, with a shiny, waxy texture. The flowers of the Hoya Carnosa are small and star-shaped, and they bloom in clusters that can be up to 20cm in diameter. The flowers are usually white, pink, or red and have a sweet fragrance that intensifies at night.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Hoya |
Appearance
The Hoya Carnosa is a climbing plant that can grow up to 2m tall. Its leaves are oval-shaped, fleshy, and waxy, with a glossy surface. The leaves can be up to 10cm long and 5cm wide. The plant’s flowers are small, star-shaped, and grow in clusters that can be up to 20cm in diameter. The flowers are usually white, pink, or red and have a sweet fragrance that intensifies at night.
Care Guide
The Hoya Carnosa is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Hoya Carnosa:
Water
The Hoya Carnosa prefers to be kept slightly dry, so be careful not to over-water your plant. Water your plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization
Fertilize your Hoya Carnosa once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
The Hoya Carnosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that is specifically formulated for tropical plants.
Sunlight
The Hoya Carnosa prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the plant’s leaves.
Hardiness Zones
The Hoya Carnosa is hardy in USDA zones 10-12. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow your Hoya Carnosa indoors.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hoya Carnosa is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep your plant clean and well-ventilated. If you do notice pests on your plant, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Hoya Carnosa is native to Southeast Asia and Australia, where it grows in tropical forests and on rocky slopes. The plant is a climbing vine that uses its aerial roots to cling to trees and other plants.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hoya Carnosa?
A: Water your Hoya Carnosa when the soil is dry to the touch, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.
Q: Does the Hoya Carnosa need direct sunlight?
A: No, the Hoya Carnosa prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: What kind of soil does the Hoya Carnosa prefer?
A: The Hoya Carnosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are some common pests that can affect the Hoya Carnosa?
A: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can all affect the Hoya Carnosa.
Related Plants
- Hoya Kerrii
- Hoya Pubicalyx
- Hoya Lacunosa
- Hoya Obovata
References
- “Hoya Carnosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Hoya Carnosa.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com.
- “Hoya Carnosa.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com.
