By Mandyme
United Kingdom
Can anyone tell me what this plant is? It was given to me eight years ago and its resided quite happily on my kitchen window sill ever since.
Recently its started to give off an awful smell, almost smells like urine so I've had to put it in the garden. It flowers once a year, the stem is sticky and recently I noticed moisture droplets on the flowers which was also sticky and smelly.
I'm worried it may die off in the garden but I can't stand the smell.
Can anyone help?
- 23 Jul, 2013
Answers
Just remembered - hoya. It was the nectar droplets that reminded me. The species I don't know, but hopefully that's a start
23 Jul, 2013
Hoya Carnosa. Could do with a bigger pot and a moss pole or similar to climb up. Surprised you say it has a horrible smell, usually faint sweet smell. Check out http://plantcaretoday.com/how-to-care-for-grow-and-bloom-hoya-plants.html for care advice.
23 Jul, 2013
It may be Hoya carnosa ... the flowers should have a light floral scent so I am interested in further replies to this question.
23 Jul, 2013
It looks like Hoya Carnosa They produce beautiful almost wax like flowers but the ones that I have put my nose to were a pleasant smell.
I have heard that some Hoyas can pen and ink a bit so either I'm mistaken and it isn't Hoya Carnosa or some people might find a particular smell nice and others not. Either way, Hoyas are a tender plant and wouldn't survive outside over winter.
23 Jul, 2013
Many thanks for the info. I've had a look at some other sites on Hoya Plants & someone else had a Hoya which gave off a smell like urine, so mine isn't unique.
Now the flowers have gone I think it's probably safe to bring it back indoors.
24 Jul, 2013
The plant probably prides itself on the smell, and doubtless thousands of insects would be attracted to it in its native habitat, but . . .!
Someone will tell you shortly. Probably come to no harm outside this weather, although be wary of the hottest sun.
23 Jul, 2013