Hoya villosa

Hoya villosa is a distinctive species native to Borneo, thriving in humid, shaded forests at higher elevations. Known for its densely pubescent foliage and softly textured blooms, this species is a favourite among collectors for both its unique leaf surface and unusually light-coloured flowers.

Distinctive Features

• Fuzzy foliage: Leaves are broadly ovate to elliptic, covered with fine hairs, giving them a velvety feel and a silvery-green appearance.
• Pastel umbels: The flowers are pale cream with a central pink to reddish corona, forming tight globular clusters with a softly plush look.
• Compact vining habit: Typically slow-growing, the plant remains relatively compact and well-suited for hanging pots or trellis training.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid harsh direct sun which may scorch the fuzzy leaves.
• Water: Keep slightly moist during the growing season but allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months.
• Humidity: Enjoys moderate to high humidity – ideally above 60% – particularly when in active growth or flower.
• Media: Requires an airy mix with excellent drainage – a combination of orchid bark, perlite, and coarse peat is ideal.
• Temperature: Thrives in temperatures from 15–28 °C; protect from frost and cold draughts.
• Fertiliser: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertiliser to support flowering.
• Repotting: Best repotted every 2–3 years or when rootbound. Avoid disturbing roots unnecessarily.

Additional Notes

• This species may take time to establish and flower but rewards patient growers with stunning floral spheres.
• Like many Hoyas, flowering can be triggered by allowing the plant to become slightly rootbound and giving a seasonal dry spell followed by resumed watering.