Wax Plant
Scientific name: Hoya carnosa
☘️ Toxicity: Safe for cats
☀️ Ideal light: Bright indirect light or soft morning sun
💧 Watering: Moderate; water when the soil is partially dry
The Wax Plant is a long-lived, trailing species with glossy succulent leaves and star-shaped, sweet-scented flowers. Ideal for hanging pots or vertical supports, it’s both beautiful and non-toxic to cats. When properly cared for, it can bloom for decades, becoming a cherished living heirloom.
Essential care
- Light: Requires plenty of bright, indirect light; gentle morning sun boosts flowering.
- Water: Water moderately once the top soil layer dries; avoid letting water sit at the roots.
- Substrate: Light and well-draining (a mix of coconut fiber, perlite, and pine bark works well).
- Humidity: Moderate; adapts well indoors but benefits from occasional misting.
- Fertilization: Every two weeks in spring and summer with a flowering fertilizer (NPK 4-14-8).
- Environment: Prefers temperatures between 18 °C – 28 °C (64 °F – 82 °F) in sheltered locations.
Flowering and maintenance
- Peduncles: Never cut the flower peduncles after blooming — new flowers will grow from them.
- Flowering: Usually occurs in spring and can last for several weeks.
- Pruning: Only for size control; remove dry or damaged stems.
Pests and how to handle them
- Mealybugs and aphids: Clean manually with cotton and 70% alcohol or apply neem oil.
- Fungal spots: Avoid water sitting on leaves and improve ventilation.
- Leaf discoloration: May indicate excess direct sunlight or overfertilization.
Propagation
- Cuttings: The most effective method — take 2–3-node stem cuttings and root them in water or moist substrate.
- Air layering: Also possible by covering a section of stem with moist moss until roots form.
Cat safety
- Classification: Listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA.
- Best practice: Avoid chemical sprays or leaf polish; keep cleaning simple with a damp cloth.
💡 Hoya carnosa is often called an “heirloom plant” — it can live and bloom for generations when properly cared for.
Frequently asked questions
- Why doesn’t it bloom? It may need more light or time to mature; young Hoyas can take years to flower.
- Why are the leaves wrinkling? A sign of dehydration; increase watering slightly.
- Should I repot often? No — it prefers tight roots, which help stimulate flowering.
Quick checklist
- ☀️ Bright indirect light
- 💧 Moderate watering
- 🪴 Light, well-draining substrate
- 🌸 Don’t cut flower peduncles
- 🐾 Safe for cats