Painted Wax Plant (Hoya picta pubira)

Painted Wax Plant

Hoya picta pubira

It drinks from the air—a poem hanging in space. Epiphytic ornamental; other names: wax vine, porcelain flower.

Prefers bright, indirect sunlight; avoid harsh direct afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves.
1/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers bright, indirect sunlight; avoid harsh direct afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves.
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Watering Allow the potting medium to dry out almost completely between waterings.
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid environments; protect from drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
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Characteristics

  • Leaves: Fleshy, opposite, ovate to lanceolate, often exhibiting slight pubescence or silver mottling on the upper surface;
  • Flowers: Star-shaped, waxy, borne in dense umbels, typically featuring a contrasting central corona, highly fragrant especially at night;
  • Stem: Slender, twining vines that produce adventitious roots for climbing and anchoring.
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when the top 2 inches of soil are dry, allowing excess to drain.

Fertilization

Apply a diluted, balanced fertilizer to support new growth.. Do not fertilize during the winter dormancy period.

Banana Peel Tea:Steep chopped banana peels in water for 24-48 hours, strain, and dilute 1:1 with water. Use this to water the plant during the growing season to encourage blooming. Discard the peels in compost to avoid attracting pests.
Pruning
  • Do not remove peduncles: Hoyas rebloom from the same flower spurs (peduncles) year after year;
  • Trim for shape: Prune only dead, damaged, or overly leggy vines to maintain a tidy appearance;
  • Propagate: Healthy stem cuttings with at least two nodes can be easily propagated in water or sphagnum moss.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats (per ASPCA).

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; safe to handle.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Highly prized in Victorian-era greenhouses and modern Western indoor gardens for their architectural foliage and intricate, porcelain-like blooms that look almost artificial.

Usage: Excellent for hanging baskets, indoor trellises, or trailing over shelves.