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Wax Plant care

Hoya Carnosa

Wax Plant — Hoya Carnosa houseplant

Thick, waxy leaves on long vining stems — and clusters of star-shaped flowers if you're patient. The wax plant (Hoya) is pet-safe, trailing, and forgives a missed watering thanks to its succulent-like leaves.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal — it needs good light to bloom. It tolerates medium light but stays leafy and won't flower there.

Some gentle direct morning sun is fine; harsh sun scorches the leaves.

Water

Let the soil dry out mostly between waterings — those thick leaves hold water, so it prefers a dry-out to constant moisture. Overwatering is the fastest way to lose one.

In winter, water sparingly.

Soil & pot

A light, chunky, well-draining mix — add orchid bark or perlite. A drainage hole is essential. They like to be slightly rootbound to bloom.

Humidity & temperature

Average to high humidity suits it. Keep it warm — 60–80°F — and away from cold drafts.

Propagation

Take a stem cutting with a couple of nodes and root it in water or soil. It roots readily.

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AskThumbs provides general educational hobby information, not guarantees. Plant and pet outcomes depend on factors we can't see. Use at your own risk. For a sick pet, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately.