The wax flowers, which belong to the milkweed family, occur worldwide in many subspecies, of which around 300 have so far been scientifically recorded as valid species. The use of wax flowers as houseplants, also known as porcelain flowers because of their delicate flowers, is limited to relatively few species that are available in specialist shops.
Which types of wax flowers are suitable as houseplants?
Popular wax flower species for houseplant cultivation are Hoya australis, Hoya bella and Hoya camosa. These species are characterized by their delicate flowers, pleasant scent and different growth characteristics, such as vigorous, compact or climbing.
The Hoya australis
The Hoya australis is one of the porcelain flowers often cultivated as houseplants. As the name suggests, the original distribution area of this species complex within the genus of wax flowers is in the tropical regions of Northern Australia, but also on the islands of Oceania. This wax flower is characterized by the following properties:
- particularly strong growth
- dark green leaves (sometimes spotted with silver)
- white flower umbels with red centers
The twisting shoots of the species can become partially woody with age. With the appropriate climbing facility and good care, this type of wax flower, which smells pleasantly during the flowering period, can reach a maximum height of 5 meters.
Special features of the Hoya bella
Compared to Hoya australis, Hoya bella is characterized by a more compact growth. This species is therefore particularly suitable for cultivation on a shady windowsill. The flowers of this species are also basically white, but have a purple center. Since this species has particularly rich branches, the plants can easily be trained into an attractive shrub shape. Propagation can be done relatively easily via offshoots.
Caring for the Hoya camosa
This subspecies of porcelain flowers is a strong climbing variety that can be used well for stair gates or other trellises in the house. However, the chosen location should not be too warm in winter, otherwise the wax flower may take a longer break during flower formation. The color of the flowers of the Hoya camosa subspecies is between white and soft pink.
Tip
In the literature about the care of wax flowers there is sometimes very contradictory information about their toxic content. Since some varieties can be poisonous not only to birds but also to humans, small children should not be left unattended near the plants.
