About
Hoya longifolia, the string bean plant, is a Hoya with long, narrow, strap-shaped leaves producing the characteristic clusters of waxy, fragrant flowers of the genus. A rewarding and ornamental Hoya for a heated conservatory or as a houseplant.
About the genus
Hoya, the wax flowers, are evergreen perennials, often twining climbers, with simple, leathery leaves and often fragrant flowers with five spreading, waxy petals, followed by slender, spindle-shaped seed pods. Popular houseplants and conservatory climbers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Sub-tropical
Native toSouthern Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrow in cactus compost with added leaf mould in full light with shade from hot sun. In growth, water moderately and apply a half-strength, low-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; keep almost dry in winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed at 19-24°C in spring; root stem section cuttings in spring or summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem rot if overwatered