Scientific Name
Hoya bhutanica Grierson & D.G.Long
Scientific Classification
Family: Apocynaceae
Subfamily: Asclepiadoideae
Tribe: Marsdenieae
Genus: Hoya
Origin
This species is native to Bhutan. It grows as an epiphyte in dense forests at an elevation of about 1,480 feet (450 m).
Description
Hoya bhutanica is an extensive creeper with slender stems that bear fleshy, green leaves with visible veins. The stems grow up to 16.4 feet (5 m) long. Leaves are elliptical with a pointed tip, up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) broad. They are attached to the stem by a thick, up to 0.3 inches (0.8 cm) long petiole.
The plant produces dense clusters of beautiful white flowers with a purple center from spring to summer. The flowers are star-shaped and up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter. They are highly fragrant but only last about four days.
Etymology
The specific epithet "bhutanica (bu-TAN-ee-kuh) means "belonging to or derived from Bhutan" and refers to Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, where the species originated from.
How to Grow and Care for Hoya bhutanica
Light: Hoya bhutanica thrives indoors in bright indirect light but can tolerate pretty low light levels, although it becomes weak and leggy, produce fewer leaves, and may not flower.
Soil: To ensure optimal growth, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that provides excellent aeration and does not hold too much water.
Temperature: As a tropical plant, Hoya bhutanica thrives in hot and humid climates, so it should be kept away from drafty windows and doorways during the colder months. This plant can withstand temperatures as low as 40 °F (4.4 °C). USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 11a to 11b, 40 to 50 °F (4.4 to 10 °C).
Watering: In spring and summer, water the plant regularly. Soak the soil thoroughly until the water drains out of the drainage holes, then let the soil dry out between watering. The plant is relatively dormant in fall and winter and needs only moderate watering.
Fertilizing: Hoya bhutanica is not a particularly heavy feeder but can appreciate some extra nutrients. Therefore, feed with high-potassium fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during the growing season.
Repotting: As an epiphyte, this plant has quite shallow root systems and does not require a deep container, nor it needs to be repotted frequently. It prefers growing a bit tight in its container. Therefore, repot in spring only if it outgrows its container.
Propagation: You can easily get new plants from one you have by stem cuttings. Leaf cuttings can be more challenging. Layering is the easiest propagation method, while starting from seeds is the simplest but the most time-consuming. For best results, take cuttings when the plant is actively growing and sow the seeds in well-draining soil in spring and summer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Hoya.
Toxicity of Hoya bhutanica
Hoya bhutanica is non-toxic to humans and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Hoya
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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