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Hoya sp. Ternate is a rare and still-unofficially classified Hoya species, collected from the island of Ternate in the Maluku Islands, Indonesia. As with many Hoyas identified by their place of origin, sp. Ternate is highly desirable among collectors for its unique foliage and blooms, even though it has not yet been formally described in botany.
The plant produces strong, trailing or climbing vines lined with thick, succulent-like leaves. The foliage is oval to slightly elongated, medium to dark green, often with faint silver speckling depending on growing conditions. The leathery texture allows the plant to store water, making it resilient and easy to grow compared to thinner-leaved Hoyas.
When mature, Hoya sp. Ternate produces clusters (umbels) of star-shaped flowers. These are typically white to cream with pinkish coronas, releasing a sweet fragrance, particularly in the evenings. Its combination of decorative leaves and perfumed blooms make it a standout Hoya for both beginners and serious enthusiasts.
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Can tolerate soft morning or late-afternoon sun. Too little light may reduce flowering, while harsh direct sun may scorch foliage.
Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry. It prefers to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Temperature: Prefers 1828C. Avoid temperatures below 15C.
Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (6080%) promotes lush foliage and flowering. Will adapt to average household conditions but benefits from misting or a humidifier in drier climates.
Use a chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix orchid bark, perlite, and coco husk mixed with a little compost is ideal. Hoyas enjoy being slightly root-bound, so only repot every 23 years.
Feed every 4 weeks during spring and summer with a high-potassium fertiliser to encourage flowering. Stop feeding in winter.
Prune long vines to encourage bushier growth. Do not remove flower spurs (peduncles), as Hoyas bloom repeatedly from the same sites.
A moderate grower, producing vines that can trail or climb over a metre in time. Flowers appear once the plant is mature and established in bright conditions.
No flowers: Often due to insufficient light or removal of peduncles.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Shrivelled leaves: Prolonged underwatering.
Pests: Occasionally mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids.
Like many Hoyas named after their place of discovery, Hoya sp. Ternate is prized for its rarity and exotic origins. It is considered relatively easy to care for compared to more delicate species, making it an excellent option for those looking to expand into rarer Hoyas.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates gentle morning sun
Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
Temperature: 1828C; protect below 15C
Humidity: Moderate to high (6080%)
Soil: Chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix
Feed: Monthly in spring/summer with high-potassium fertiliser
Growth: Trailing or climbing vine with leathery green leaves and clusters of white-pink fragrant flowers