Hoya patella - fragrant flowers

Hoya patella is an accepted species, published by Schlechter in 1913. Its native range is New Guinea, where it grows as an epiphyte in the tropical moist biome. The foliage is compact and often slightly pubescent, while young leaves may emerge bronze or pink. The flowers are large and cup-shaped, usually appearing one to three per peduncle, and are marketed as fragrant. Persistent peduncles can produce repeated blooms. Growth is relatively slow, and direct sunlight can easily scorch the leaves.

Botanical identity and origin. Hoya patella Schltr. is an accepted name. It was published in 1913 in Botanische Jahrbücher. Its native range is New Guinea. The plant grows as an epiphyte in humid tropical forests. The epithet patella refers to the cup- or saucer-shaped form of the flower.

Foliage and growth. The foliage is small to medium-sized, often slightly pubescent, with barely visible veins. Young leaves may have a bronze or pink tint before turning dark green. The plant has a compact, short-vining habit and grows relatively slowly. It tends to develop better in high humidity. Bright light is beneficial, but direct sunlight can easily scorch the leaves.

Flowers and fragrance. A peduncle may emerge from each node. Each peduncle usually produces one to three large, cup-shaped flowers rather than a dense umbel. In cultivation, the most common color is pink, with a darker corona. Persistent peduncles can flower again. The flowers are marketed as fragrant; the perceived intensity is often weak. Blooming can also occur on relatively young plants if conditions remain stable.

Note: It has leaves with defects.

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.