Hoya Carnosa Wax Plant

Waxy leaves and, in time, clusters of starry flowers: a Hoya carnosa wax plant for bright windowsills and trailing from a high shelf.

Leave it a little pot-bound and don’t rush to repot. Bright light and a dry spell between waterings encourage those waxy clusters of flowers later on.

An easy houseplant for real homes

• Where it lives. Happiest on a bright windowsill or trailing from a high shelf.
• Light. Bright, indirect light; allow to dry a little between drinks.
• Water. When the top of the compost feels dry. Tip away any water left in the saucer.
• Around the family. Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though no houseplant is a snack, so supervise curious toddlers and pets as you would with any pot plant.

Your questions answered

Is this a good houseplant for beginners?
Yes. It’s one of the more forgiving indoor plants we stock, and a gentle place to start if you’re new to growing in a flat.

What size should I choose?
Smaller pots suit windowsills, desks and shelves. Larger sizes make more of a statement on the floor or beside furniture. Sizes available: 9cm pot / about 12cm tall, 12cm pot / about 17cm tall.

Do I need a grow light?
Not usually, if you can offer the light described above. In a very dark flat, a simple white plant light on a shelf can help through midwinter.

The details

A little green for a bright windowsill, chosen for real UK homes without a garden.