Hoya glabra

Hoya glabra is a climbing epiphytic species from Sumatra and Borneo, cultivated primarily for its large, smooth, firm leaves. The green foliage, oval in shape with an elongated tip, is crossed by three clearly defined main veins. The slender stems lengthen and climb supports, gradually developing a broad habit. Under good growing conditions, the plant may produce abundant umbels with small, purple-toned flowers.

Foliage and habit. The leaves are ovate, with a rounded base and acuminate tip, smooth on both surfaces and with a fleshy to leathery texture. The original description indicates leaves approximately 14–16 cm long and 7.5–9.5 cm wide, borne on thick petioles, with three prominent main veins. The plant is a tall, branched epiphytic vine, with long, slender, flexible stems suitable for training on a support.

Flowers and fragrance. The inflorescences are umbel-shaped and may contain approximately 15–25 flowers. The original botanical description mentions purple flowers with an almost flat corolla, approximately 1 cm in diameter, and ovate, pointed lobes that curve outward at the tips. The flowers are reported to be fragrant in cultivation, with a subtle aroma; the intensity may vary and is not described in the original botanical publication.

Botanical identity and origin. The accepted botanical name is Hoya glabra Schltr., published in 1908. The type specimen was collected from trees in the forest at Long Wahau, Borneo. The product name corresponds to the accepted name.

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.