Hoya merrillii

Hoya merrillii is an epiphytic species from the Philippines, valued primarily for its glossy foliage with prominent veins, which can develop red hues in bright light. The accepted botanical name is Hoya merrillii Schltr., published in 1904; the epithet honors botanist E.D. Merrill, associated with Philippine collections. The plant forms flexible vines and can be trained onto a support or left trailing. The flowers are waxy, white, cream, or pale yellow, and fragrant.

Foliage and growth. The leaves are thick, glossy, ovate to elliptic, with prominent venation and sometimes slightly recurved margins. In bright but filtered light, the foliage may turn red or purple; this coloration is a response to light. Forms with more elongated leaves are also circulated, sometimes informally labeled “long leaf”; this is not a published cultivar, but a variation in leaf shape. Direct sunlight through a window can scorch the leaves if the plant has not been acclimatized.

Flowers and fragrance. The flowers are star-shaped and waxy, usually white, cream, or pale yellow; some specimens may show pink accents, depending on the clone and growing conditions. They are fragrant, with a scent often described as sweet, but the intensity varies. Horticultural sources report umbels with up to approximately 25 flowers and a duration of about 4–5 days; regular flowering is possible on mature plants during the warm season, but it is not guaranteed for every specimen.

Botanical identity and origin. The accepted name is Hoya merrillii Schltr. Cultivation reports associate the first collection with low-altitude, humid forests on Mindoro, followed by a wider range throughout the archipelago. The species is sometimes confused with Hoya quinquenervia. The commercial origin, Taiwan, of the lot should not be confused with its natural range.

Plants in stock may have sunburned leaves or 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, fertilizing, propagation, and flowering, read the complete Hoya care guide.