Hoya macrophylla inner varigated 6457

DESCRIPTION
Hoya macrophylla 🌿 is a robust vining plant from the Apocynaceae family, native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and the Philippines. This species stands out within the Hoya genus for its impressively large, waxy leaves that can reach up to 15 centimeters in length. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphyte, clinging to trees and absorbing moisture from the humid air. This is a beginner-friendly plant that tolerates a range of indoor conditions and forgives occasional neglect. A fun fact: the thick, succulent-like leaves of Hoya macrophylla can store water for extended periods, making it one of the more drought-tolerant hoyas available.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This hoya exhibits a vining growth habit that can either climb when given support or trail gracefully from a hanging basket. The leaves are broad, oval-shaped, and substantial, with a thick, almost leathery texture that feels smooth to the touch. Leaf colour ranges from deep green to lighter green depending on light exposure, and the glossy surface reflects light beautifully. The foliage remains attractive year-round, making it an excellent choice for adding lush greenery to any space.
FLOWER DETAILS
The flowers of Hoya macrophylla are creamy white to pale pink, arranged in rounded clusters called umbels. Each individual flower has a star shape with a contrasting darker centre, creating a striking visual display. The blooms produce a subtle, sweet fragrance that intensifies during evening hours. While flowering may not occur frequently in younger plants, mature specimens bloom reliably once or twice per year, typically in spring or summer. To encourage flowering, provide bright indirect light, allow the plant to become slightly root-bound, and avoid moving it once flower buds appear.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light is ideal, though it tolerates lower light conditions. Aim for 6-8 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Avoid harsh direct sun which can scorch the leaves.
💧 Water: Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil dry out. In spring and summer, this may be weekly; in fall and winter, reduce to every 10-14 days. Bottom watering works well to encourage deep root growth.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-70% humidity but adapts to average home humidity of 40-50% without issue.
🪴 Soil: Use a well-draining mix such as orchid bark, perlite, and potting soil in equal parts. Good aeration prevents root rot.
🏺 Potting: Choose a pot with drainage holes, preferably terracotta or ceramic. Repot every 2-3 years in spring, going up only one pot size. These plants prefer being slightly root-bound.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate growth, producing several new leaves every 6 months under good conditions. Vines can reach 3-6 feet within a year, with mature plants growing up to 10-15 feet if supported.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Skip fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes, Hoya macrophylla is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it safe for homes with curious pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
Hoya macrophylla thrives in bright living rooms, near east or west-facing windows, or in bathrooms with natural light where it benefits from ambient humidity. It works well on shelves where vines can trail down, or trained up a trellis or moss pole for vertical interest. Bedrooms with moderate light are also suitable. Avoid placing it in dark corners, drafty entryways, or directly in front of heating or cooling vents, as temperature fluctuations stress the plant.
RARITY ASSESSMENT
common