Hoya callistophylla 'Black Cat'

Hoya callistophylla 'Black Cat' is a label for plants of the species Hoya callistophylla selected for their very dark veining on thick, green foliage. The species is an epiphytic vine native to Borneo. The leaves are thick, elliptic-lanceolate, with prominent veins that are almost black against a green background, and can reach approximately 25 cm in length and 9 cm in width on a mature specimen. The shoots can become long, although growth is fairly slow. Under good growing conditions, umbels of small, waxy flowers appear, ranging from pale yellow to cream or golden, with a light fragrance. Flowering depends on the plant's maturity and growing conditions.

Foliage and growth. The foliage is thick and firm, elliptic or lanceolate, with very prominent pinnate veins. In plants sold as 'Black Cat', the contrast between the green background and the dark veins is pronounced; on young leaves, the veins may be paler before darkening. A mature specimen can produce long vines, but this particular plant is a young cutting with few leaves.

Flowers and fragrance. The species has small, star-shaped flowers grouped in umbels containing several dozen blooms. The color described in cultivation sources is pale yellow, cream, or golden, sometimes with brownish shades. They are fragrant, with a light scent. Individual flowers last only a short time on the plant. Flowering depends on maturity and growing conditions.

Botanical identity and origin. Hoya callistophylla T.Green is an accepted botanical name, published in 2000.

Note: rooted cutting with 2–3 leaves. New growth may be affected during transport and handling.

For international orders: please be aware of the fact that this is a sensitive plant and only has 2 leaves. There is a high risk of damage during international transportation of this plant.

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.