The shrub-like or climbing species of wax flowers originally come from tropical latitudes. That's why the Hoya species, which are also sold as porcelain flowers, are usually cultivated as houseplants; they cannot be overwintered in the garden.
How do you properly overwinter a wax flower?
To overwinter a wax flower successfully, you should place it in a bright room with temperatures of 15°C (Hoya australis, Hoya carnosa) or 18°C (Hoya bella). Water sparingly and avoid fertilizing during the dormant phase.
The right conditions for overwintering the wax flower
The following types of wax flowers are primarily sold in specialist retailers:
- Hoya australis
- Hoya carnosa
- Hoya bella
While the former two species hibernate optimally at temperatures of around 15 degrees Celsius during the “resting period”, the latter likes it a little warmer at around 18 degrees Celsius. Therefore, most living spaces are not very suitable as winter quarters. The slightly cooler temperatures are better in a bright stairwell or storage room, where the plants can still be watered occasionally and do not get cold drafts.
Care measures during the winter period
Winter is a kind of resting phase for the wax flower. Therefore, you should only water sparingly during this time and, if possible, not fertilize.
Tip
The best time for repotting and propagating the wax flower is spring.