Wax plant (Hoya verticillata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Wax plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Wax plant
Hoya verticillata, also known as wax plant, is a climbing or trailing plant from the Apocynaceae family, valued for its lush green, succulent leaves and delicate, star-shaped flowers, often with a contrasting center. Its umbel-shaped inflorescences emit a sweet fragrance, especially at night. It is ideal for hanging baskets or trailing over supports in bright indoor spaces, adding an exotic and elegant touch.
Native range
Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light to bloom, avoiding intense direct sun which can scorch its leaves. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to almost completely dry out between waterings, as it is sensitive to overwatering and waterlogging. Use a well-draining substrate, specifically for orchids or succulents, with good bark content. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it is preferable to slightly underwater than to overwater.
How to save a dying Wax plant
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled, or yellow leaves; leaf drop; soft, black stems.
- First aid
- Check roots (rot); prune damaged stems; repot in airy substrate; reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root and stem rot, suffocating the plant.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't affected the entire base. Act fast by cutting damaged parts.