Hoya imperialis 'Palawan' parfumata

Hoya imperialis 'Palawan' is a rare epiphytic plant in the Apocynaceae family, native to the island of Palawan, Philippines. Prized for its large leaves and showy, fragrant flowers, this variety is a top choice for hoya collectors and tropical plant enthusiasts.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves : The leaves are large, elliptical, measuring 20-30 cm long and 8-10 cm wide, thick, fleshy, with a leathery texture. The color is a dark green on the upper surface, with a prominent midrib, and light green on the underside. The foliage is glossy and adds a dramatic contrast to the flowers.
• Flowers : The flowers are large, typically 6-7 cm in size, up to 10 cm in diameter, grouped in compact umbels of up to 12 flowers. They have a star-shaped corolla, cream, pale yellow or pale pink, with a brown or purple center, and a white or cream crown. They bloom more frequently in summer, are fragrant, with a sweet, spicy scent, and can last up to 15 days.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : It can reach up to 3 m in length as a climbing plant, with thin, woody stems, and a width of 30-60 cm, depending on the support.
• Vigor : Rapid growth, under optimal conditions.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers bright indirect light, ideally near a shaded east or south window. Tolerates lower light but may produce fewer flowers. Avoid intense direct sun.
• Soil : Grow in well-drained soil, such as a mixture of pine bark, sphagnum moss, or perlite. Hoya dislikes compacted or waterlogged soil.
• Watering : Water abundantly in spring and summer, but let the substrate dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. When possible, use rainwater.
• Temperature : Minimum 10°C. Prefers temperatures of 21-29°C during the day and 15-18°C at night.
• Humidity : Prefers high humidity. Mist the leaves or use a humidifier to improve this.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : Sensitive to overwatering and low light. May be affected by fungus, aphids or leaf spot; treat with organic fungicides or insecticidal soap. Tolerates temporary low humidity.
• Fertilization : Apply a high-potassium fertilizer (e.g. 5-10-5, diluted by half) every 2 weeks in spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in winter. An orchid fertilizer can also be used.

Origin

Native to the island of Palawan, Philippines, this variety grows in tropical forests, on tree trunks or in mangroves.
The ceramic pot is not included in the price.