Hoya myrmecopa 'Yellow'

Hoya myrmecopa 'Yellow' is the yellow-flowered selection of a compact epiphytic species, published in 2001. The foliage is small, glossy, and succulent, while leaf size and thickness vary with light levels. 'Yellow' designates the form recognized by its flower color. The species is not endemic only to Sulawesi: its accepted range also includes the Philippines. The name refers to the tree hollows where it was found, sometimes associated with ants. The flowers are small, fragrant, and grouped in umbels.

Foliage and growth. The foliage is compact, with thick, glossy, ovate to elliptic leaves and barely visible venation. The original description indicates leaves approximately 2.5–7.5 cm long. In brighter light, the leaves generally remain smaller and thicker and may develop reddish pigmentation; in lower light, they become larger, thinner, and deep green. The plant grows rather densely, with short shoots, and rarely twines. Light-induced coloration is not variegation.

Flowers and fragrance. The 'Yellow' selection is sold for its small flowers, with a yellow corolla and yellow corona, often with a pink center. The shades may also range into cream or orange, depending on conditions. The umbels are convex and may contain approximately 6–16 flowers, frequently around 15. The corolla is reflexed. The flowers are fragrant; yellow clones are described in cultivation as having a mild but intense fragrance, although its intensity and character may vary. Flowering is not tied to a single season, but regular blooming is not guaranteed for every specimen.

Botanical identity and origin. The accepted name is Hoya myrmecopa Kleijn & Donkelaar, published in 2001 in Blumea. The type specimen comes from near Tentena, on the northwestern shore of Lake Poso in central Sulawesi, growing in branch hollows, sometimes with traces of ant nests. The name combines the Greek words for ant and hole. 'Yellow' remains a color label. The optional association with ants explains the etymology; it does not require a special acidic substrate in cultivation.

Substrate: use an airy, well-drained 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.