Hoya mirabilis 'Big Leaf' - The Rare Tropical Hoya

The Rare Tropical Hoya: A Collector's Gem

Hoya mirabilis 'Big Leaf' is a truly captivating Hoya species that will capture your heart with its large, textured leaves and unique flower clusters. This rare and rewarding Hoya is native to Southeast Asia and is a prized addition to any plant collection.

Distinctive Features

• Leaves: Large, ovate leaves with a deep green colour and a slightly succulent texture. The leaves are typically 15-20cm long (approximately 6-8 inches) and 8-10cm wide (approximately 3-4 inches). They have prominent veins and a slightly wavy margin, adding to their visual appeal.
• Flowers: Produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are a beautiful blend of yellow and maroon hues. The flowers have a velvety texture and a delicate fragrance.
• Growth Habit: This Hoya has a vining growth habit and can reach several metres in length. It thrives when provided with a support to climb, such as a trellis or moss pole. It can also be grown in a hanging basket to showcase its elegant, cascading foliage.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Some direct morning or evening sun can promote flowering. However, be mindful of intense afternoon sun, which may scorch the leaves.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. As a rule of thumb, check the soil moisture with your finger – if the top 2-3cm (approximately 1 inch) feels dry, it's time to water.
• Humidity: This Hoya appreciates moderate to high humidity, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or misting the leaves regularly.
• Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures between 18-29°C (65-85°F) for optimal growth. Avoid exposing this tropical gem to cold draughts or temperatures below 15°C (59°F).
• Fertiliser: Use a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly during the spring and summer growing seasons to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Dilute the fertiliser to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilisation.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years as needed, using a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent over-potting.

Additional Notes

• Hoya mirabilis 'Big Leaf' is generally easy to care for once you understand its basic needs, making it a rewarding plant for both novice and experienced growers.
• Provide good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues. A well-ventilated environment is crucial for healthy Hoya growth.
• This Hoya can be propagated through stem cuttings, allowing you to share its beauty with friends and family. Simply take a cutting with at least two nodes and place it in water or a well-draining propagation mix.