Hoya rupicola – Wax Plant

Hoya rupicola, currently accepted botanically as Hoya australis subsp. rupicola, is an uncommon Australian Hoya with thick, elongated green foliage and a distinctive upright-to-scrambling growth habit. Unlike many strongly twining Hoyas, this plant develops more like a scrambling subshrub, with stems that begin upright and may spread or spill as they lengthen. Mature plants can produce clusters of fragrant, waxy white flowers.

QUICK FACTS

Botanical name: Hoya australis subsp. rupicola
Common name: Wax Plant
Pot size: 5-inch hanging basket
Growth habit: Upright to scrambling
Light: Bright indirect light
Water: Water when the upper portion of the potting mix begins to dry
Care level: Moderate
Pet safety: This plant has not been tested for pet safety.

CARE

Light: Provide bright, indirect light for strong growth. Gentle morning or late-afternoon sun can be beneficial, but protect the foliage from prolonged harsh midday or afternoon sun.

Water: Water thoroughly when the upper portion of the potting mix begins to dry, then allow excess water to drain freely. Avoid keeping the roots constantly saturated, but do not allow the entire root ball to remain completely dry for extended periods.

Humidity: Average to moderately humid household conditions are suitable. Good airflow around the foliage and roots is beneficial.

Soil: Use a loose, airy, fast-draining potting mix. Orchid bark, perlite, coco chips, and quality potting media can be used to create good drainage and airflow around the roots.

Temperature: Warm household temperatures are preferred. Protect the plant from cold drafts and prolonged exposure to temperatures below about 55°F.

Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer during periods of active growth.

GROWTH & HABIT

Hoya rupicola has a distinctive growth habit compared with many familiar Hoyas. It naturally develops upright to scrambling stems rather than strongly twining around a support. As the stems lengthen, they may spread outward or begin to spill over the edge of the container, making this Hoya well suited to a hanging basket.

PET SAFETY

Pet Safety: This plant has not been tested for pet safety.

AFTER DELIVERY

Do not repot a freshly shipped plant for at least two weeks after delivery. Repotting during the Blackwater Plants guarantee period voids live plant guarantee coverage.