Hoya vitellina

Hoya vitellina is a tropical climbing vine valued for its thick foliage with silver splash markings and its waxy, golden-yellow flowers. The accepted botanical name is Hoya vitellina Blume, published in 1849. In nature, the species grows in western Java and Borneo (Sarawak), in the humid tropical biome; it is not endemic solely to Java. It should not be confused with Hoya vitellinoides, a separate species, or with the IML 1348 line, which is sold locally as a distinct product.

Foliage and growth. The leaves are thick and firm, and may become large as the plant matures. Silver splash markings frequently appear on the green leaf surface, with varying density from one leaf to another. The plant has a vining habit and can be trained onto a support or allowed to grow trailing. In bright but filtered light, some leaves may develop darker edges or accents; direct sunlight through a window can nevertheless cause burns.

Flowers and fragrance. The flowers are waxy and star-shaped, in golden-yellow shades. They appear in umbels and are fragrant, although the intensity and character of the scent vary in cultivation reports; a fixed note or strong fragrance is not guaranteed with every flowering. As with most Hoya species, the persistent peduncles should be left on the plant after the flowers have fallen.

Botanical identity and origin. The accepted name is Hoya vitellina Blume. In horticulture, some batches circulate under the label aff. vitellina or IML 1348; this material is a collection line, not the 1849 protologue, and does not change the identity of this product. The batch’s commercial origin in Taiwan should not be confused with its natural range.

The decorative pot is not included in the price. Plants in stock may have sunburned or damaged leaves.

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