Hoya carnosa
wax plant
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
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Pink Red White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink Red White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Pink Red White | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Climbing
- Genus
Hoya are evergreen perennials, often twining climbers, with simple, leathery leaves and often fragrant flowers with 5 spreading waxy petals, followed by slender, spindle-shaped pods contained small seeds in copious silky floss
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- C China to Australia
How to grow
Cultivation
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
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or by layering
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Sub-tropical
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Climber and wall shrubs
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.