Hoya imperialis 'Palawan' fragrant

Hoya imperialis 'Palawan' is a rare epiphytic plant from the Apocynaceae family, native to Palawan Island, Philippines. Valued for its large leaves and spectacular, 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 in length and 8-10 cm in width, thick, fleshy, with a leathery texture. The color is dark green on the upper surface, with a prominent central vein, and light green on the underside. The foliage is glossy and provides a dramatic contrast to the flowers.
• Flowers: The flowers are large, typically 6-7 cm, reaching 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 in color, 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 strong indirect light, ideally near an east or shaded south window. Tolerates lower light but may produce fewer flowers. Avoid intense direct sunlight.
• Soil: Grows in well-drained substrate, such as a mix of pine bark, sphagnum moss, or perlite. Hoya dislikes compacted or waterlogged soil.
• Watering: Water abundantly in spring and summer, but allow the substrate to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. Use rainwater when possible.
• 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 aspect.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Sensitive to overwatering and low light. May be affected by fungi, aphids, or leaf spots; treat with organic fungicides or insecticidal soap. Temporarily tolerates low humidity.
• Fertilizing: Apply a fertilizer high in potassium (e.g., 5-10-5, diluted to half strength) every 2 weeks in spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in winter. Orchid fertilizer can also be used.

Origin

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