Hoya carnosa, also known as the wax plant, is one of those houseplants I can never get enough of. Between the glossy leaves and the clusters of star-shaped flowers, it’s a true classic. It’s surprisingly easy to propagate, which means I can take one plant and turn it into several more without much effort. If you’ve been wanting to try, here’s exactly how I go about it.
Propagating from Stem Cuttings
My favorite way to propagate Hoya carnosa is with stem cuttings. I take a clean pair of scissors or pruners and snip a piece of stem just below a node (that’s the spot where a leaf meets the stem). For a little boost, I sometimes dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder—it’s not required, but I’ve found it helps speed things along.
Once I’ve prepped the cutting, I stick it into moist, well-draining potting soil and place the pot somewhere bright but out of direct sunlight. I keep the soil lightly moist (never soggy), and then it’s just a matter of waiting. After several weeks, little roots start to form at the base of the stem, and before long, the cutting begins to send out new growth.
Propagating from Leaf Cuttings
Another fun method is using leaf cuttings. I pick one or two healthy leaves from my plant and lay them on top of some damp potting mix. The key here is to make sure the base of each leaf touches the soil without burying it.
Just like with stem cuttings, I set the pot in indirect light and keep the soil lightly moist. After a few weeks, roots start forming at the base of the leaf. Once I spot new growth pushing up, I know it’s time to give the little plant its own pot.
Watching the Magic Happen
Propagating Hoya carnosa takes some patience—this plant isn’t the fastest grower in the world—but it’s so rewarding when those tiny roots and shoots finally appear.
I’ve had great luck turning one plant into many, and every time I pot up a new Hoya, it feels like a little victory. With the right light, a steady watering routine, and a bit of time, it’s easy to create a whole collection of these beautiful wax plants to enjoy or share with friends.
