Hoya ariadna

Hoya ariadna is a rare and eye-catching collector’s Hoya, recognised by its thick, veined foliage and unusually large, richly coloured flowers. While not a formally described species, it belongs to section Eriostemma and is closely aligned with the Hoya sussuela group. The blooms—burnt orange with golden centres—are fragrant and fleshy, making this one of the more dramatic Hoyas in cultivation.

Distinctive Features

• Foliage: Smooth, leathery, boat-shaped leaves with prominent midveins and a glossy finish. Robust vining stems support rapid growth.
• Flowers: 5-pointed, star-shaped blooms in shades of orange and red, with a contrasting golden corona. The flowers are musk-scented and can span 4–5 cm across.
• Growth Habit: A vigorous, climbing epiphyte that thrives when allowed to climb or trail freely. Suitable for trellises, moss poles, or hanging baskets.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright filtered light or gentle morning sun encourages strong growth and flowering. Avoid direct, harsh sun which can scorch leaves.
• Water: Let the upper 2–3 cm of the potting mix dry before watering again. Reduce watering during cooler seasons.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity is ideal. Benefits from occasional misting or humidity trays indoors.
• Media: Prefers a chunky, aerated mix containing orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir for strong root development.
• Temperature: Best grown between 18–29°C. Protect from frost and cold snaps below 10°C.
• Fertiliser: Use a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer.
• Repotting: Only when pot-bound; Hoyas bloom better when slightly root-restricted.