Hoya rubida

Hoya rubida is native to the montane and submontane forests of Papua New Guinea, where it grows as an epiphytic climber in humid, shaded environments. This species is prized for its blushed foliage and softly fragrant, pale pink blooms that emerge in clusters.

Distinctive Features

• Foliage with reddish tones: New growth often exhibits a noticeable red flush, particularly under strong light, enhancing its ornamental appeal.
• Clustered flowers: Produces umbels of pale pink to cream-coloured blooms with a subtle fragrance; flower longevity varies with temperature and light.
• Vining habit: A twining epiphyte with slender stems that benefit from support or training along trellises or hanging baskets.

Care Tips

• Light: Thrives in bright, filtered light; avoid intense midday sun which may scorch the leaves.
• Water: Water thoroughly when the top few centimetres of substrate dry out; reduce frequency in winter.
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity levels, ideally above 60%, but adapts to typical indoor conditions with adequate air circulation.
• Media: Best grown in a chunky, free-draining mix such as orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir.
• Temperature: Ideal range is 18–28°C; protect from chills below 12°C.
• Fertiliser: Feed with a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
• Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years or when the root ball becomes compacted; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.