Hoya pubicalyx - exemplare mari, piramida

Hoya pubicalyx , also known as the "wax flower", is a tropical climbing or trailing plant in the Apocynaceae family, prized for its attractive foliage and fragrant, star-shaped flowers. Native to the Philippines, this species is a popular houseplant due to its exotic appearance, moderate care requirements, and spectacular blooms.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves : The leaves are lanceolate, dark green , glossy, with a waxy texture, 7-15 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. Some varieties have silvery spots or subtle variegation. The leaves are thick, succulent, arranged oppositely on long, flexible stems.
• Flowers : The flowers appear in dense, star-shaped umbels, 1-2 cm in diameter, grouped in clusters of 20-40 flowers. They have a pink-purple center and dark purple to black petals, with a velvety appearance. The flowers produce a sweet, intense fragrance , especially in the evening, and a sticky nectar. They bloom profusely in spring and summer (May-August), then sporadically several times a year, if growing conditions are optimal. The color of the flowers is also influenced by the intensity of light in the growing environment.
• Perfume : The floral perfume, with sweet and spicy notes, is the main attraction, sometimes being more pronounced at night.

Growth characteristics

• Height/Length : As a climber or trailing plant, it can reach 2-3 meters tall indoors if given support (e.g. trellis) or grown in hanging baskets. Slow to moderate growth.
• Vigor : It has steady but not aggressive growth, forming long, flexible stems that curl or hang.
• Type : It is an epiphytic plant, adapted to tropical conditions, with aerial roots that help it attach to surfaces in its natural environment.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers partial sun exposure - a minimum of a few hours of sun per day promotes abundant flowering , ideally near an east or west facing window. It also tolerates low light, but flowering is reduced.
• Soil : It needs a well-drained , aerated substrate, such as a mixture of peat moss, perlite, orchid bark, and sphagnum moss.
• Watering : Water moderately, when the top 3-5 cm of soil is dry, usually once a week during the growing season (spring-summer) and less often in winter. It is sensitive to overwatering, which can cause root rot.
• Temperature : Grows well at 18-27°C , making it ideal for home conditions. Avoid temperatures below 15°C and cold drafts.
• Humidity : Prefers moderate to high humidity (40-60%). A humidifier or a bowl of pebbles and water helps in dry homes, but will tolerate standard humidity as well.