Hoya

Talk about a stunner! The Hoya, commonly known as wax plant or porcelain flower, is a real beauty. Its flowers have such a sweet smell and the foliage looks so good! It even won the 2018 Garden Merit Award by the Royal Horticultural Society. We were not invited to the celebrations, and though we may still be upset about the snub, this is not about us, this is about our friend the Hoya!

  • Safe for pets and children
  • Repot once every 2 years
  • Fertilize once a month
  • Bright, indirect light
  • Very little water

About the Hoya

Origin

Hoyas, commonly known as wax plants or porcelain flowers, originate from tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia. These resilient plants have adapted to diverse environments, ranging from rainforests to arid climates. We love a little versatility!

Air Purification

The Hoya is really the perfect housekeeper. A study done by the university of Georgia indicated that the Hoya is great at absorbing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contaminants emitted by common household items such as old books, carpets and pets. Move over, Roomba! Hoyas are in the house.

Toxicity

Cats are inexplicably drawn to chewing on Hoya leaves. While the plant isn't toxic, excessive consumption may lead to vomiting in pets. Keep an eye on your furry friend's nibbling habits to ensure their well-being.

Caring for a Hoya

Watering

Hoya plants, hailing from low-water environments, are averse to excess moisture, and overwatering can lead to root rot. Water only when the top half of the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid flooding the pot and ensure proper drainage for these amigos! Hoyas prefer higher humidity levels, so be sure to mist your plant regularly or place near a humidifier.

Lighting and Placement

Although it has a tolerance for temperatures as low as 16°C, the Hoya prefers higher temperatures, up to and around 29°C. Humidity should be maintained between 40% to 60%. The best place to leave the plant is about 4-5 feet from a south-facing window, with the sunlight filtered through the glass. Other good places are kitchens and bathrooms with ample sunlight.

Nutrition

Feed your Hoya monthly from spring through summer using a plant-based fertilizer applied to the soil. No fertilizer is needed during the winter when the plant is dormant.

Repotting

While being root bound can stress the Hoya plant, it's actually beneficial as this stress stimulates blooming, according to studies. Unless you're indifferent to seeing flowers, allowing the plant to remain root bound can encourage blossoming. Otherwise, repot into a slightly larger pot every 1-2 years.

Pruning and Flowering

Optimal pruning time is after spring when the plant is entering a growth phase. Remove naturally fading foliage, leaving short flower stems intact as new buds will grow from these points.

Hoya SOS

Illness

Hoyas are prone to infestations by mealybugs, scale insects, and fungal infections. Combat mealybugs and scale insects with insecticidal soap. If leaves become mushy or start to fall, it may signal a fungal infection. In such cases, repot the plant in pasteurized soil and prune decayed roots to prevent further spread.

Now sit back and relax, our App will take care of the rest.

Hassle-free plant care with the Plantsome App!

Get the app