Hoya

plant genus

Also known as: wax plant

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The genus Hoya, commonly known as waxplants, belongs to the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) and includes over 200 species of perennial evergreen vines or shrubs. These plants are native to tropical Asia and Australia, with several species popular as houseplants.1

Waxplants are characterized by their slow growth, simple, leathery leaves, and long-lasting, star-shaped flowers that are typically waxy and come in shades of white to pink, often borne in showy clusters.1

Some well-known species include Hoya carnosa (porcelain flower), known for its cultivated varieties with pink-centered white flowers, and Hoya lanceolata bella (miniature waxplant), which is more compact. Hoya australis is native to Australia and has fragrant flowers. It is important to note that the name "waxplant" can also refer to other unrelated plants with waxy characteristics.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

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Intriguing is the slow-growing Hoya, or wax plant, with leathery foliage and waxy, wheel-shaped blooms. By contrast, the inch plants and wandering jew, species of Tradescantia and Zebrina, are rapid growers with watery stems and varicoloured leaves; these long-beloved houseplants are used widely in window shelves or hanging baskets.…
Read More
Intriguing is the slow-growing Hoya, or wax plant, with leathery foliage and waxy, wheel-shaped blooms. By contrast, the inch plants and wandering jew, species of Tradescantia and Zebrina, are rapid growers with watery stems and varicoloured leaves; these long-beloved houseplants are used widely in window shelves or hanging baskets.…
Read More