Linear Wax Plant
hoya linearis
Also known as: ["Hoya linearis","String of Turtles"]
Overview
A trailing epiphytic plant with slender, linear leaves and clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Hoya |
| Botanical Name: | Hoya linearis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or shelf with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, or as needed to maintain humidity around 50–60%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to new light conditions; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place near east-facing windows for ideal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) at night are tolerated.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or coco coir.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pot, propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy or dead stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut above nodes; remove dead growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, focusing on the root zone, and avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; brown leaf tips or slow growth in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; avoid drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHoya linearis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHoya linearis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHoya linearis is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed as food.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Hoya linearis?
A: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Hoya linearis flower?
A: Yes, it produces clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers under the right conditions.
Q: Can Hoya linearis be grown in low light?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions, though flowering may be reduced.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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