Search Plants
Try for Free
English
About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Waxplants (Hoya)
Also known as : Waxvines
The waxplants (Hoya) are a large group of flowering, evergreen vines and shrubs. They are so-named because their leaves and flowers often appear waxy or artificial. Their flowers, apart from being colorful, are often quite fragrant – several species are very popular as ornamentals, though in temperate climates they often need to be grown indoors.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
Key Facts About Waxplants
Feedback
Attributes of Waxplants
Plant Height
3.5 m
Spread
50 cm
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
15 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Waxplants
Distribution of Waxplants
Feedback
Distribution Map of Waxplants
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Waxplants
Feedback
Waxplants, colloquially known as wax plant, is loved for its lush, waxy foliage and striking blooms. Basic care for waxplants involves bright but indirect light, well-draining soil, and a warm environment with temperatures ranging from 60-85°F. It prefers being slightly root-bound, so minimal repotting is required. Common challenges include overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and pests like aphids or mealybugs affecting the plant's health. Waxplantss, being tropical plants, are sensitive to cold temperatures, hence extra care is needed during winters. In other seasons, regular watering and fertilizing aids healthy growth.
How to Water Waxplants?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Waxplants?
How to Propagate Waxplants?
How to Plant Waxplants?
Exploring the Waxplants Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Porcelainflower
The porcelainflower is a flowering species native to East Asia and Australia. Porcelainflower is commonly valued as a houseplant for its ability to purify indoor air quality. Porcelainflower produces nectar and can attract pollinators.
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.
Porcelain flower
Porcelain flower (Hoya australis) is a popular tropical evergreen climbing vine often cultivated for its attractive two-colored leaves and ease of care. This plant also grows showy white flowers which are very fragrant, which are its main appeal. Porcelain flower is an important food source for the caterpillars of Queensland butterflies and several crow butterflies.
Sweetheart plant
Potted sweetheart plant (*Hoya kerrii*) plants are often sold as a novelty gift for Valentine's Day due to their heart-shaped leaf, most commonly with a tiny single leaf rooted in a little pot for tabletop decoration. If you can grow it into a longer vine, it makes a lovely hanging plant or trellis climber.
Wax plant
The wax plant is a popular species of houseplant as it produces fragrant, interesting flowers. Its scent has been likened to cinnamon. This plant is a climber and needs a trellis in order to grow properly.
Hindu rope
Hindu rope (Hoya compacta), with its long strands of curly leaves and clusters of waxy blossoms, strongly resembles a rope, giving it another common name: Hindu rope. It has never been found in the wild, suggesting that it is an artificially cultivated offshoot of Hoya Carnosa.
Shooting stars wax plant
The shooting stars wax plant (Hoya multiflora) is an epiphytic plant, which means it can grow on the surface of other plants via roots that extend off its vining stems; it does this without causing any harm to the tree it is climbing. It is easy to take care of, an efficient grower and bloomer, which makes it a popular choice for a houseplant.
Hoya pubicalyx
Hoya pubicalyx is an epiphytic tropical vine and a popular houseplant, cherished for its fragrant, two-toned, star-shaped flowers. The cultivars can have variegated foliage. The flowers of this plant are featured on the Philippine five-centavo coin.
All Species of Waxplants
Porcelainflower
Porcelainflower
The porcelainflower is a flowering species native to East Asia and Australia. Porcelainflower is commonly valued as a houseplant for its ability to purify indoor air quality. Porcelainflower produces nectar and can attract pollinators.
Wax plant
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.
Porcelain flower
Porcelain flower
Porcelain flower (Hoya australis) is a popular tropical evergreen climbing vine often cultivated for its attractive two-colored leaves and ease of care. This plant also grows showy white flowers which are very fragrant, which are its main appeal. Porcelain flower is an important food source for the caterpillars of Queensland butterflies and several crow butterflies.
Sweetheart plant
Sweetheart plant
Potted sweetheart plant (*Hoya kerrii*) plants are often sold as a novelty gift for Valentine's Day due to their heart-shaped leaf, most commonly with a tiny single leaf rooted in a little pot for tabletop decoration. If you can grow it into a longer vine, it makes a lovely hanging plant or trellis climber.
Wax plant
Wax plant
The wax plant is a popular species of houseplant as it produces fragrant, interesting flowers. Its scent has been likened to cinnamon. This plant is a climber and needs a trellis in order to grow properly.
Hindu rope
Hindu rope
Hindu rope (Hoya compacta), with its long strands of curly leaves and clusters of waxy blossoms, strongly resembles a rope, giving it another common name: Hindu rope. It has never been found in the wild, suggesting that it is an artificially cultivated offshoot of Hoya Carnosa.
Shooting stars wax plant
Shooting stars wax plant
The shooting stars wax plant (Hoya multiflora) is an epiphytic plant, which means it can grow on the surface of other plants via roots that extend off its vining stems; it does this without causing any harm to the tree it is climbing. It is easy to take care of, an efficient grower and bloomer, which makes it a popular choice for a houseplant.
Hoya pubicalyx
Hoya pubicalyx
Hoya pubicalyx is an epiphytic tropical vine and a popular houseplant, cherished for its fragrant, two-toned, star-shaped flowers. The cultivars can have variegated foliage. The flowers of this plant are featured on the Philippine five-centavo coin.
Variegated indian rope
Variegated indian rope
The curiously curled and contorted leaves of variegated indian rope look a little like twisted rope, explaining this plant's common name. In this distinctive hybrid, the leaves are a two-colored, or 'variegated' combination of cream and dark green. This tropical hybrid is most often grown as a houseplant where its fragrant flowers can be best appreciated.
Hoya curtisii
Hoya curtisii
If you are in search of a low-maintenance miniature vine for your hanging basket, then hoya curtisii is a good choice. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and features pointy leaves with silver variegation.
Hindu rope hoya
Hindu rope hoya
Hoya carnosa 'Compacta' is a rare variant succulent that is cultivated as a houseplant. Hoya carnosa 'Compacta' is sometimes known as the Hindu rope plant. This species should be grown in lightweight soil in a small container with ample sunlight.
Porcelain flower
Porcelain flower
An unusual-looking epiphyte that is sold as a hanging plant, porcelain flower has long, dark-edged leaves and clusters of small, berry-like, pink-purple flowers. The flowers aren't especially showy, but they are pretty and smell like butterscotch.
Porcelain Flower 'Krimson Queen'
Porcelain Flower 'Krimson Queen'
Porcelain Flower 'Krimson Queen' is a wax plant variant which has purplish stems and pink flowers, inspiring its name. The leaves have attractive white borders. This is a trailing and climbing plant which can be as long as 2.5 to 3 m in maturity.
Porcelain flower hoya
Porcelain flower hoya
Porcelain flower hoya is a unique houseplant that has thick, silver-dollar-sized leaves that resemble a coin. This easy-to-care-for plant produces fragrant white flowers that are shaped like stars, making it a great addition to any indoor garden. The plant is native to Southeast Asia and is often grown for its ornamental value. In some cultures, the plant is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the home. Porcelain flower hoya prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Krimson princess wax plant
Krimson princess wax plant
Unlike its parent plant that has solid green leaves, krimson princess wax plant is a variegated cultivar. It was bred for its waxy leaves with creamy to yellow irregular markings. Krimson princess wax plant is prized for its climbing/cascading growth habit, which makes it a perfect choice for hanging baskets and trellises.
Hoya obscura
Hoya obscura
Hoya obscura is a tropical evergreen with lush, glossy leaves that often exhibit a reddish tint when exposed to ample sunlight. Its alluring, star-shaped flowers emit a sweet fragrance, drawing pollinators and enthusiasts alike. Thriving in humid environments, hoya obscura clings and climbs, indicating its epiphytic nature in its native jungles. The leaves' reflective sheen offers a captivating visual, especially in dappled light where it flourishes.
Wax plant
Wax plant
The wax plant is one of the Hoya species with the largest leaves, hence its genus name "macrophylla" ("large-leaved"). Native to Borneo but cultivated as a houseplant across the globe, this trailing plant is regarded for its sturdy green leaves and fragrant flowers.
Grooved wax flower
Grooved wax flower
Grooved wax flower is a tropical evergreen vine. Its foliage is characterized by thick, succulent, and twisted leaves that resemble a rope. The plant produces clusters of sweetly fragrant, star-shaped flowers that attract butterflies and bees. It's a popular houseplant and is known for its air-purifying qualities, making it perfect for bright, humid spaces. The Hindu Rope Plant is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for and is an excellent addition to any plant collection.
Bush hoya
Bush hoya
It only takes bush hoya around two years to start producing fragrant flowers. It produces small leaves resembling a shrub and has an upright growth habit that prevents the stems from becoming tangled. It is often grown as a container plant in cooler climates.
Grass leafed hoya
Grass leafed hoya
Grass leafed hoya is a tropical, evergreen climbing plant native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its beautiful, dark green leaves and its waxy, star-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters. The plant is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in pots or in the ground. Grass leafed hoya is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its low maintenance requirements and its ability to adapt to a variety of lighting conditions.
Hoya lyi
Hoya lyi
Hoya lyi is a fascinating plant that captivates with its unique characteristics. This plant boasts vibrant green leaves with intricate patterns. One interesting fact about hoya lyi is its ability to attract a variety of insects and birds, making it a delightful addition to any garden. Additionally, this plant's lustrous flowers bloom throughout the year, adding a burst of color to its surrounding ecosystem. With its captivating appearance and ecological significance, hoya lyi is truly a remarkable plant worth exploring.
Wax plant
Wax plant
Wax plant is a subspecies of Hoya lanceolata. This is an epiphyte that lives on other plants in the wild. It is a tropical native that is most commonly grown as a houseplant. This plant differs from the native wax plant because of its small size, growing to just 45 cm.
Porcelain flower
Porcelain flower
The soft and slender appearance of this evergreen succulent is what catches the eye. Porcelain flower has groovy, hairy leaves that support its star-shaped flowers, which emit a pleasant scent. It adds a lovely vine touch to any garden.
Porcelainflower 'Tricolor'
Porcelainflower 'Tricolor'
Porcelainflower 'Tricolor' is named for the variegated coloration of its leaves which differ dramatically from the plain green hue of the parent plant. These attractive green, pink and white leaves make this waxy-leaved type a popular houseplant. Since it’s an air plant, porcelainflower 'Tricolor' needs very little water and is a hardy household survivor.
Wax vine
Wax vine
Wax vine is a vining plant that has the Hoya australis ssp. tenuipes as its parent species. It displays a spectacular array of colors on its leaves, which include shades of green, yellow, and red. When optimally cared for, this cultivar blooms highly attractive star-shaped white flowers with a red center that smells like sweet vanilla and chocolate.
Wax plant
Wax plant
The wax plant is an evergreen perennial that is native to the Philippines and it's known for being one of the most difficult plants in its genus to take care of, so it's recommended to pay extra close attention when tending to this specimen. It will produce tiny red flowers that emanate a sweet fragrance when thriving.
Fishtail hoya
Fishtail hoya
Fishtail hoya is a captivating houseplant native to Southeast Asia. Its unique leaves resemble the fins of a fish and make it an excellent addition to any collection. While it may not have any economic or culinary uses, its intricate foliage and long lifespan make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. In its natural habitat, it can climb up to 6 meters high, attracting insects and birds with its fragrant flowers. Its name derives from the Greek word "hoya," meaning "wax," referring to the waxy texture of its flowers.
Sweetheart hoya
Sweetheart hoya
Sweetheart hoya is a very popular houseplant that is highly coveted by plant collectors and casual plant keepers alike due to its unique appearance. What makes this plant stand out are its deep green oval leaves, which are accentuated with a silver splash pattern. They are often used as hanging plants, or on trellises.
Wax plant
Wax plant
Wax plant is native to the Philippines. Its stunning pendulous flowers are star-shaped and release an irresistible vanilla-like fragrance at night. It's a popular houseplant due to its ease of care and drought tolerance, making it perfect for forgetful plant parents.
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Waxplants
Hoya
Also known as: Waxvines
The waxplants (Hoya) are a large group of flowering, evergreen vines and shrubs. They are so-named because their leaves and flowers often appear waxy or artificial. Their flowers, apart from being colorful, are often quite fragrant – several species are very popular as ornamentals, though in temperate climates they often need to be grown indoors.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
Instantly identify plants with a snap
Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Key Facts About Waxplants
Feedback
Attributes of Waxplants
Plant Height
3.5 m
Spread
50 cm
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
15 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Waxplants
Distribution of Waxplants
Feedback
Distribution Map of Waxplants
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Waxplants
Feedback
Waxplants, colloquially known as wax plant, is loved for its lush, waxy foliage and striking blooms. Basic care for waxplants involves bright but indirect light, well-draining soil, and a warm environment with temperatures ranging from 60-85°F. It prefers being slightly root-bound, so minimal repotting is required. Common challenges include overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and pests like aphids or mealybugs affecting the plant's health. Waxplantss, being tropical plants, are sensitive to cold temperatures, hence extra care is needed during winters. In other seasons, regular watering and fertilizing aids healthy growth.
How to Water Waxplants?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Waxplants?
How to Propagate Waxplants?
How to Plant Waxplants?
Exploring the Waxplants Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Porcelainflower
The porcelainflower is a flowering species native to East Asia and Australia. Porcelainflower is commonly valued as a houseplant for its ability to purify indoor air quality. Porcelainflower produces nectar and can attract pollinators.
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.
Porcelain flower
Porcelain flower (Hoya australis) is a popular tropical evergreen climbing vine often cultivated for its attractive two-colored leaves and ease of care. This plant also grows showy white flowers which are very fragrant, which are its main appeal. Porcelain flower is an important food source for the caterpillars of Queensland butterflies and several crow butterflies.
Sweetheart plant
Potted sweetheart plant (*Hoya kerrii*) plants are often sold as a novelty gift for Valentine's Day due to their heart-shaped leaf, most commonly with a tiny single leaf rooted in a little pot for tabletop decoration. If you can grow it into a longer vine, it makes a lovely hanging plant or trellis climber.
Show More Species
All Species of Waxplants
Porcelainflower
Wax plant
Porcelain flower
Sweetheart plant
Wax plant
Hindu rope
Shooting stars wax plant
Hoya pubicalyx
Variegated indian rope
Hoya curtisii
Hindu rope hoya
Porcelain flower
Porcelain Flower 'Krimson Queen'
Porcelain flower hoya
Krimson princess wax plant
Hoya obscura
Wax plant
Grooved wax flower
Bush hoya
Grass leafed hoya
Hoya lyi
Wax plant
Porcelain flower
Porcelainflower 'Tricolor'
Wax vine
Wax plant
Fishtail hoya
Sweetheart hoya
Wax plant
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
