The porcelain flower, also known as the hoya, is a fascinating plant with delicate, waxy flowers that resemble works of art. This tropical plant is both robust and elegant, making it a perfect addition to any interior, where it adds a touch of the exotic. But how do you grow and care for it? Here’s a complete guide to taming this plant wonder.
WHAT IS THE PORCELAIN FLOWER?
Native to South-East Asia and Australia, the hoya is a climbing or drooping plant belonging to the Apocynaceae family. Its nickname, porcelain flower, comes from its shiny, smooth petals, reminiscent of fine ceramics. The flowers, often grouped in umbels, give off a subtle fragrance, sometimes more pronounced in the evening.
There are many varieties of hoya, but the most popular for indoor cultivation are Hoya carnosa and Hoya bella. These varieties are distinguished by their thick leaves and uniquely beautiful star-shaped flowers.
WHY CHOOSE HOYA FOR YOUR INTERIOR?
The porcelain flower is much more than just a decorative asset. This plant has a number of advantages that make it an ideal choice for plant lovers.
- A hardy plant: Unlike other tropical plants, the hoya is surprisingly easy to care for, making it an excellent choice even for beginners.
- Long flowering period: If properly cared for, it can produce flowers for several months of the year.
- An air purifier: Like many houseplants, the hoya helps to improve air quality in your home.
But be warned: for it to reveal all its splendour, it’s essential to know its specific needs.
HOW DO YOU PLANT AND GROW PORCELAIN FLOWERS?
CHOICE OF LOCATION: LIGHT AND TEMPERATURE
To thrive, the hoya needs plenty of indirect light, but it fears direct sunlight, which can burn its leaves. Place it near an east or west-facing window, where it will receive soft light.
SUBSTRATE AND POTTING
The hoya likes light, well-drained substrate. A mixture of potting soil for houseplants and perlite or sand is ideal. For optimum growth, choose a terracotta pot, which allows moisture to evaporate more easily.
Plants should be repotted every two or three years, in spring. This gives the plant enough room for its roots, while renewing the substrate.
WATERING AND HUMIDITY
One of the secrets to maintaining hoya is to control watering. The golden rule is to let the substrate dry out between waterings. In winter, reduce the frequency even further to avoid excess humidity, which can lead to disease or root rot.
On the other hand, the hoya does appreciate a certain amount of ambient humidity. If your home is too dry, spray its leaves with lime-free water or place a humidifier nearby.
FERTILISATION
To encourage flowering, we recommend adding a liquid fertiliser for flowering plants every two to three weeks during the growing season, i.e. from spring to summer. Be careful not to overdose, however, as too much nutrient can harm the plant.
SPECIFIC CARE FOR OPTIMUM FLOWERING
Although hardy, the hoya can be temperamental when it comes to flowering. Here are a few tips to encourage the production of its sublime flowers.
- Patience is key: It can take several months, even years, for a newly established hoya to flower. Don’t despair, as this is often a sign that it is adapting to its new environment.
- Don’t cut the peduncles: Flowers often appear on evergreen peduncles. If you remove them after one flowering, you risk compromising the next.
- Stimulate it with a little water stress: By slightly reducing watering in spring, you can encourage the plant to produce flowers.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOYA HEALTHY
Although porcelain flowers are hardy, they can be susceptible to certain problems. Among the most common pests are scale insects and mites. If you notice white spots or felting on the leaves, act quickly by wiping the affected areas with a cloth soaked in soapy water.
A PLANT TREASURE TO BE ADOPTED WITHOUT HESITATION
The porcelain flower, with its brilliant flowers and luxuriant leaves, is a plant that delights everyone who grows it. Easy to care for and ideal for adding a touch of the exotic to your home, it’s sure to delight novices and gardening enthusiasts alike. So why not let yourself be tempted by this jewel of a plant?
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