Hoya coronaria 'Red Starfish' - large, fragrant flowers

Hoya coronaria 'Red Starfish' is the selection of the accepted species Hoya coronaria, a vigorous vine from southern Thailand and western and central Malaysia, with thick, slightly pubescent, elliptic foliage. Red Starfish is a sales label for the large, star-shaped flowers, with a cream-yellow corolla and red tips; it is not a separate taxon and is not listed as a registered cultivar. The flowers are especially fragrant at night. In cultivation, the vine grows considerably before its first flowering and branches readily. Flowering depends on the plant’s maturity and growing conditions.

Foliage and growth. The foliage is elliptic, thick, light to medium green, with slightly reflexed margins and a pubescent underside. The foliage is not variegated. The vine is vigorous and branching; in cultivation, it grows considerably before its first flowering. A young specimen needs time before developing its mature habit. Shoot length varies from one specimen to another.

Flowers and fragrance. The flowers are large for the genus, star-shaped and waxy, arranged in umbels. The Red Starfish selection is sold for its star-like appearance: a cream-yellow corolla with red tips and a yellow corona with a burgundy centre. At species level, the colour may vary from creamy white and yellow to pink or red. The flowers are especially fragrant at night; intensity may vary. Flowering depends on the plant’s maturity and growing conditions.

Identity. The accepted botanical name is Hoya coronaria Blume, published in 1826–1827. In horticulture, it is placed in section Eriostemma; Eriostemma coronarium is a synonym, not a separate genus on this listing. Red Starfish remains a label. This batch does not replace the species listing or the other colour labels in the catalogue.

Growing medium: use an airy, well-drained mix suitable for epiphytic species. We recommend the professional growing medium for Hoya and Anthurium - SG Mix.

For complete recommendations on light, watering, growing medium, fertilising, propagation and flowering, read the complete Hoya care guide.