Hoya heuschkeliana variegated hhv001

Hoya Heuschkeliana (Variegata)

The Hoya is a genus of epiphytic plants native to South Asian countries, including the Philippines, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Polynesia, and New Guinea.  Over 500 recognized species of tropical plants belong to the Hoya genus, which is part of the Apocynaceae (dogbane) family.  A wide range of species can also be found in Australia. hese plants store water in their leaves, which is why they need very little water.This genus is also known as hoya, waxplant, waxing, and waxflower. Robert Brown, a botanist, gave this genus its name in honour of his close friend Thomas Hoy.

Hoya heuschkeliana (inner variegated) is a much sought after species among the Hoyas. The plant’s obovate foliage is initially pinky-red, eventually turning cream with a green edging. Hoya heuschkeliana (inner variegated) is a flowering creeper. However, the plants do not bloom until they reach full maturity, which can take almost five years.

The wait is worth it; it grows bell-shaped, 5mm, dark pink-mauve flowers that have a powerful fragrance. The flowers can last up to 7 days, and come in umbels of up to 12. Since the Hoya heuschkeliana (inner variegated)  is evergreen, you can look forward to glossy leaves all year round, and scented flowers during the summer months.

Summary:

• Requires moderate care
• Indirect, diffused sunlight or shade
• Temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit
• Humidity of 60% and higher.
• Watering only when soil is dry at 1-2 inches
• African potting mix or succulent mix
• Free draining soil
• Low pH range 
• Watering only when 70-80% dry (1-2 inches of soil should be dry)