Hoya burtoniae - mature specimens

Hoya burtoniae is a botanically accepted species native to Luzon Island, Philippines, where it grows as a climbing epiphyte or lithophyte. In cultivation, it forms flexible vines suitable for hanging pots and compact foliage with small, oval, finely pubescent leaves. In bright light, the leaves may develop coppery or reddish margins, or burgundy tones. The small, velvety, burgundy-red flowers are grouped in umbels and have a sweet fragrance, frequently described as honey- or caramel-like.

Name and identification. Hoya burtoniae Kloppenb. is an accepted botanical name, published in 1990. It is not the same taxon as the unpublished plant marketed as Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae. Nor is it Hoya sp.

Compared with the plant sold as Hoya sp. aff. burtoniae, this selection identified as Hoya burtoniae has smaller, thinner, more oval leaves, with less prominent venation. Historical confusion between commercial labels does not negate the distinction between the two products.

Foliage and growth habit. The leaves are small, slightly fleshy and finely pubescent, with a subtle, velvety texture. The base color is green, but bright exposure may accentuate the coppery or reddish margins and color a larger portion of the leaf blade. Color intensity naturally varies between leaves and according to growing conditions.

Flowers and fragrance. The flowers are small and pubescent, in burgundy-red shades, with a contrasting lighter center. They appear in umbels and have a sweet fragrance associated with honey or caramel. Flowering depends on the plant’s maturity and growing conditions.

Note: Vine length may vary depending on the season, natural growth rate and production batch. Plants are shipped with vines of varying lengths, which continue to develop and adapt.

Substrate: use an airy, well-draining mix suitable for epiphytic species. We recommend the professional substrate for Hoya and Anthurium - SG Mix.

For complete recommendations on light, watering, substrate, fertilizing, propagation and flowering, read the complete Hoya care guide.