Hoya caudata (black leaves)

The foliage has silver splash on a green background; in bright light, it can darken to burgundy, almost black. It is shipped with green leaves; the dark coloration appears after exposure. The species is native from southern Thailand to western Malaysia. The flowers are star-shaped, fuzzy, and may be fragrant. Persistent peduncles can flower again. Flowering depends on the plant’s maturity and growing conditions.

Foliage. Mature leaves are ovate and thick, often with slightly wavy margins. The background is green, covered with silver splash; some blades may already be bronzed. The stems are thin and may remain bare in places. Cuttings or plants with green leaves are shipped. The burgundy or almost black coloration develops after exposure to intense light; it is not the guaranteed color at delivery.

Flowers and fragrance. The species’ flowers are star-shaped and covered with hairs, usually white, beige, or pale yellow, with a red corona. The epithet caudata refers to the long anther appendages in the center of the flower. The gallery for this lot does not show flowers. Persistent peduncles can produce repeated blooms; buds drop easily if the plant is moved or exposed to major temperature fluctuations. Plants may flower at a relatively small size, on new vines. In the Secret Garden greenhouse, flowering may continue throughout the year. The plant is sold as a fragrant plant. A duration of up to one week is a cultivation observation; in the literature, the flowers may remain open for only a few days. Flowering depends on the plant’s maturity and growing conditions.

Notes: minimum 4 leaves

Identity. The accepted botanical name is Hoya caudata Hook.f., published in 1883. Its native range includes Thailand, the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo.

The decorative pot shown in the photo is not included in the price.

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, fertilization, propagation, and flowering, read the complete Hoya care guide.