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Miniature Wax Plant (Hoya bella)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Miniature Wax Plant

Intermediate

Hoya bella

A small trailing Hoya with little lance-shaped leaves and fragrant clusters of white star-shaped flowers with purple centres. Variegated plants are sold in Japan as 'Seven Star'.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
24〜29℃
Lifespan
Perennial epiphyte
Size
Trailing stems about 30-60 cm long
Humidity
50〜60%
Watering
Dilute liquid feed in the growing season

About

Hoya bella is an epiphytic member of the dogbane family from tropical forests of Myanmar and northeastern India (Assam, Manipur). The Cornish collector Thomas Lobb found it growing on trees on a hill near Moulmein in what was then British Burma and sent it to Veitch and Son; it was described in 1848. Rather than twining, its slender stems branch freely and cascade, reaching about 30-60 cm. The small, glossy, lance-shaped leaves are somewhat succulent and store water. The flowers are pure white with a deep purple central corona and are especially fragrant at night. It was once treated as Hoya lanceolata subsp. bella, under which name it received the RHS Award of Garden Merit in 1993. Its semi-succulent leaves store water, so it needs watering less often than most houseplants. In Japan variegated plants are also sold for hanging pots under the name 'Seven Star'.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the Miniature Wax Plant

The Miniature Wax Plant grows to Trailing stems about 30-60 cm long.

Temperature & humidity for the Miniature Wax Plant

The ideal temperature for the Miniature Wax Plant is 24〜29℃. Ideal humidity is 50〜60%.

Basic Info

Origin

Myanmar and northeastern India (Assam, Manipur)

Lifespan

Perennial epiphyte

Size

Trailing stems about 30-60 cm long

Temperature

24〜29℃

Humidity

50〜60%

Watering & Fertilizer

Dilute liquid feed in the growing season

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

Likes bright indirect light and needs enough of it to flower. Weak early-morning or late-afternoon sun encourages blooms, but midday sun scorches.

Watering

The semi-succulent leaves store water, so let the mix nearly dry before watering. Waterlogging causes root rot and yellow leaves.

Temperature & Overwintering

Prefers about 24-29°C and 50-60% humidity. Cold drafts damage the leaves, so in winter keep it warm and away from windows.

Soil & Repotting

Grow in a free-draining loamy mix in a hanging basket.

Propagation

Propagate by stem cuttings in spring or summer.

Pests & Cautions

Watch for mealybugs, scale and spider mites. Do not move or turn the pot once buds form, and leave old flower stalks, which bloom again. North Carolina State Extension lists it as non-toxic to dogs and cats.

HoyaSeven StarHanging basketFragrant flowers

Miniature Wax Plant FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Miniature Wax Plant?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Miniature Wax Plant?
A

The ideal temperature for Miniature Wax Plant is 24〜29℃. Recommended humidity is 50〜60%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QHow large does Miniature Wax Plant get?
A

The mature size of Miniature Wax Plant is Trailing stems about 30-60 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Miniature Wax Plant?
A

Miniature Wax Plant: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid feed in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Miniature Wax Plant?
A

The price of Miniature Wax Plant varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: September 23, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Hoya bella Hook.

Synonyms: Hoya lanceolata subsp. bella (Hook.) D.H.Kent, Hoya paxtonii B.S.Williams

Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.

Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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