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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Hoya sp. Sabah is a rare and captivating tropical species discovered in the lush rainforests of Sabah, Borneo, where it grows epiphytically among moss-covered trees in warm, humid canopies. This unidentified or undescribed species (sp. = species) is prized among collectors for its velvety, dark-green foliage and richly coloured, sweetly fragrant blooms.
The leaves are thick, oval to slightly lanceolate, and finished with a soft sheen or fine hairs depending on the form. Under bright light, they may take on bronze or reddish hues, adding subtle dimension to the foliage. Mature plants produce clusters of waxy, star-shaped flowers in tones of pale pink, peach, or deep orange-red, each with a contrasting centre and a delicate honey-like fragrance.
Graceful and exotic, Hoya sp. Sabah captures the untouched spirit of Borneos rainforests a true collectors piece that blends textural foliage with tropical charm.
Prefers bright, indirect light or filtered morning sun. Strong, consistent light encourages flowering and enhances any natural leaf tinting. Avoid prolonged harsh sunlight, which can scorch the foliage, or deep shade, which will reduce blooming.
Allow the top 34 cm of soil to dry before watering again. Hoya sp. Sabah prefers to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, while long dry periods may wrinkle the leaves. In cooler months, water less frequently but do not let the roots desiccate completely.
Temperature: Ideal range 2030 C; avoid cold draughts and temperatures below 15 C.
Humidity: Enjoys moderate to high humidity (6085%). Mist occasionally or position near a humidifier, particularly in dry indoor environments.
Use a well-draining, airy epiphytic mix equal parts orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or sphagnum moss. This ensures both airflow and gentle moisture retention. Terracotta or slatted pots work well for evaporation. Repot every 23 years in spring to refresh the medium and promote healthy roots.
Feed every 46 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced fertiliser or one higher in phosphorus to encourage blooms. Stop fertilising in autumn and winter when growth slows.
Prune lightly to control size and encourage branching. Do not remove the flower spurs (peduncles) after blooming, as new flowers reappear from the same sites each season. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and highlight their natural sheen.
A moderate grower with a trailing or climbing habit, typically reaching 60120 cm indoors. When mature, it blooms freely throughout the warm months, producing multiple umbels that last for several days. The plants textured leaves and colourful flowers make it both ornamental and tactile.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Wrinkled foliage: Underwatering or low humidity.
Lack of blooms: Insufficient light or premature pruning of flower spurs.
Pests: Occasionally mealybugs or spider mites; remove manually and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
Native to the biodiverse Sabah region of northern Borneo, Hoya sp. Sabah represents an as-yet-unclassified form within the Apocynaceae family. It thrives in tropical rainforest conditions high humidity, diffused light, and consistent warmth where it grows attached to trees as an epiphyte.
In cultivation, this species has become highly desirable among collectors for its combination of striking foliage, fragrance, and adaptability. Like other Hoyas, it also purifies indoor air and contributes to a healthier living environment, while its trailing habit adds texture and movement to tropical displays.
Light: Bright, indirect light; gentle morning sun ideal
Water: Allow top 34 cm of soil to dry between watering
Temperature: 2030 C; avoid below 15 C
Humidity: Moderate to high (6085%)
Soil: Airy, free-draining mix bark, perlite, coir or moss
Feed: Every 46 weeks in spring/summer
Growth: Trailing or climbing vine, 60120 cm; thick green leaves and pink-to-orange fragrant flowers
Toxicity note: Contains mild latex sap that may irritate skin and is toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Display Hoya sp. Sabah in a hanging basket or trailing from a high shelf where its waxy flowers can cascade beautifully. The rich foliage pairs well with silver-leaved species such as Hoya krohniana Silver or Scindapsus pictus Silver Hero for tonal contrast. For a more natural look, mount it on cork or driftwood inside a high-humidity cabinet to mimic its native rainforest environment the perfect showcase for this exquisite Bornean Hoya.
