Hoya erythrina

Hoya erythrina is native to the Philippines and is prized for its vibrant floral displays and softly textured foliage. It thrives as a vining epiphyte in tropical lowland forests, where it benefits from warm temperatures and filtered light. The species is especially sought after for its dense, spherical flower clusters with striking red centres framed by paler margins.

Distinctive Features

• Inflorescence: Produces large umbels of up to 20–25 flowers, often with intense reddish centres and a lighter corona, exuding a mild fragrance.
• Foliage: The ovate green leaves have a slightly velvety surface and may exhibit subtle venation or puckering, especially under bright conditions.
• Growth habit: A fast-growing, twining epiphyte that will readily climb or trail when given support.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright indirect light is ideal. Some morning sun can encourage flowering but avoid harsh midday rays.
• Water: Water thoroughly when the substrate dries out; reduce frequency in cooler months to prevent root issues.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (60–80%), especially during active growth or bud formation.
• Media: Use a chunky, well-aerated mix – a combination of orchid bark, perlite, and coco chips suits it well.
• Temperature: Performs best between 18–30°C. It is sensitive to cold and should be protected below 12°C.
• Fertiliser: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or suspend feeding in winter.
• Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years or when roots begin to outgrow the container, ideally in spring.

Additional Notes

• Flowering is often enhanced by providing steady warmth, humidity, and allowing the plant to become slightly root-bound.
• Blooms form on old spurs, so avoid pruning peduncles after flowering.