Hoya caudata 'big and green leaves'

This species is an epiphytic vine native from southern Thailand to western Malesia. The flowers are star-shaped, fuzzy, and may be fragrant, while the persistent peduncles can bloom again. In the Secret Garden greenhouse, the plant flowers throughout the year when conditions remain stable. Care is simple, and the plant grows steadily. Its broad, deep-green foliage is its distinctive feature. A specimen that stands out in any collection.

Botanical identity and origin. Hoya caudata Hook.f. is an accepted name, published in 1883. Its native range extends from southern Thailand to western Malesia and includes Thailand, the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo. The plant grows as an epiphyte in the humid tropical biome. The label 'big and green leaves' distinguishes a form with larger, greener leaves from silver-leaved selections or batches labelled Sumatra; it does not change the species identity.

Foliage and growth. Mature leaves are thick, firm, and often have wavy margins. The upper surface is green, with silver splash or marbling; the underside may become reddish in brighter light. New leaves are softer. The plant grows as a vine, with long shoots and adventitious roots along the stem. It tolerates periods when the substrate dries out, but reacts poorly to overwatering and pots that are too large. Plants in stock may also have leaves with blemishes.

Flowers and fragrance. The flowers are star-shaped and covered with white hairs, usually white, beige, or pale pink, with a red corona. The epithet caudata refers to the long, tail-like anther appendages in the centre of the flower. The umbels are concave, with a small number of flowers. Persistent peduncles can produce repeated blooms; buds fall easily if the plant is moved or exposed to major temperature fluctuations. Plants may also flower at a relatively small size, with peduncles on new vines. In the Secret Garden greenhouse, flowering may continue throughout the year. The flowers are fragrant during some blooms. A duration of up to one week is a cultivation observation, not a botanical rule; in the literature, the flowers may remain open for only one to three days.

The decorative pot is not included in the price.

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, fertilizing, propagation, and flowering, read the complete Hoya care guide.