Hoya latifolia

Hoya latifolia is a remarkable and rare plant species for indoors or in greenhouses. This climbing plant is the most special regarding to size; the leaves could grow out to around thirty centimeters in length. The leaves are oval-shaped, have a dark green color and lighter green parallel running nerves. Mature plants need supporting structure to guide its growth as they make a network of stems. The stems become woody with age. The plant flowers with large inflorescences that could reach around ten centimeters in diameter. Flowers are star-shaped and have a crème-white to pale pink coloration. The inside of the flower is normally more intensely colored. Every inflorescence gives way to around 200 or more flowers. The flowers produce a pleasant smell. Propagating this species is relatively easy; make cuttings of the stems with a couple of healthy leaves and let them root under warm conditions.

Hoya latifolia is a robust species to grow within its genus. This climbing species originates from warm tropical forests with a high humidity. Make sure by cultivating this species, that temperatures are high. In between 18 and 30 degrees is ideal. A high humidity is recommended, aim for around 75% and ensure a good ventilation. Place this species in a location with a lot of bright indirect light. Direct light in de morning and the evening is endured after acclimatization, but try to avoid direct midday sunlight. Pot the plant in an airy mixture that has excellent drainage. Let the soil mixture consist of a maximum of 50% of organic matter. Water frequently, the soil can only dry slightly in between waterings. Prevent that any water remains on the bottom of the pot. In winter, this species is barely growing if even at all, in spring and summer this species grows rampantly. Provide this species with specialized fertilizer for orchids and epiphytes on a monthly basis, the recommended dosage.