Hoya crassipetiolata - Wax plant

The Hoya crassipetiolata is a species native to Vietnam, rarely found in cultivation. It develops large, elongated, thick, slightly undulate lanceolate leaves. The medium green lamina is veined with dark green. This tropical houseplant creates an elegant cascade of lush lianas perfect for placing on a shelf or in a hanging basket. Its stunning and fragrant flowering gives it the alternative name 'Porcelain Flower'. Exquisitely beautiful, it rewards patient gardeners with umbels of flowers that resemble fine porcelain and last for several weeks.

The Hoya crassipetiolata is also known as the Wax Flower. It is a species native to Southeast Asia, particularly the lush forests of Vietnam, where it grows in warm and humid conditions. In these regions, this epiphytic plant climbs up other vegetation, using it as support to reach several metres in height. The Hoya crassipetiolata develops semi-succulent leaves; with its moderate growth under optimal conditions, its lianas can reach 1 m in length and 50 cm in width. Its spring or summer flowering, when grown indoors, appears once the plant reaches maturity, forming star-shaped flower umbels with a remarkable texture reminiscent of porcelain. Grouped in clusters of 15 to 20 or more, they are borne on long floral peduncles, creating clusters around 5-6 cm in diameter.

The genus Hoya belongs to the Apocynaceae family and comprises around 400 species, originating from the warm, humid regions of Southeast Asia, Australia, and Polynesia, where they thrive in tropical forests. Primarily shrubs or epiphytic lianas, they often anchor themselves to tree trunks and branches using aerial roots, allowing them to grow towards the light. This unique climbing habit has made them popular as ornamental houseplants, ideal for climbing supports or cascading from hanging baskets.

The Hoya crassipetiolata thrives in bright, indirect light—preferably 10 hours a day to encourage flowering—but can also tolerate some gentle direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon. Use an epiphytic plant substrate such as an orchid mix, and allow it to dry out completely between waterings, except in summer or warm periods when you may water several times a week. This species prefers temperatures between 18°C and 30°C, with humidity levels of at least 50%, ideally up to 70%. You can train it to climb a support or, alternatively, grow it in a hanging basket, allowing its flexible stems to trail freely.