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Hoya quinquenervia is a rare and striking species of wax plant in the Apocynaceae family, native to the Philippines. Like many Hoyas, it is an epiphytic vine, naturally growing on trees in warm, humid forests. It is prized for its large, decorative foliage and beautiful, fragrant blooms.
The leaves are elongated, leathery, and deep green, often showing a characteristic pattern of five distinct veins running along the blade a feature reflected in its name (quinquenervia means five-nerved). The foliage is slightly glossy and can develop a subtle bronze or reddish tint in strong light, adding to its ornamental value.
When mature, Hoya quinquenervia produces umbels of star-shaped, waxy flowers. These are creamy-white to pale yellow with a darker corona, strongly scented, and long-lasting. Flowers appear repeatedly from persistent spurs, making the plant both a foliage and flowering showpiece.
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Tolerates some morning or evening sun, which can bring out red hues in the leaves, but avoid harsh midday sun.
Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry. Do not allow the plant to sit in waterlogged soil. Reduce watering during winter dormancy.
Temperature: Best in 1828C. Protect from draughts and avoid prolonged exposure below 15C.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (6080%). Average indoor humidity is tolerated, but higher levels encourage larger leaves and more prolific blooms.
Use a chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix a blend of orchid bark, perlite, coco husk, and a little peat-free compost. Repot every 23 years, as Hoyas flower better when slightly root-bound.
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a high-potassium fertiliser to support blooming. Stop feeding in winter.
Trim vines lightly to maintain shape and encourage branching. Never remove the peduncles (flower spurs), as Hoyas rebloom from these repeatedly.
A moderately fast-growing vine that can trail or climb 12 metres indoors. Flowers typically appear on established plants grown in bright conditions.
No flowers: Insufficient light or removal of spurs.
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Leaf shrivelling: Prolonged underwatering.
Pests: Occasionally mealybugs, thrips, or spider mites.
As a Philippine native, Hoya quinquenervia thrives in warm, tropical environments. Its distinctive five-veined leaves and strongly scented blooms make it especially collectable. For Hoya enthusiasts, it offers both architectural foliage and reliable flowering once mature.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates gentle morning sun
Water: Allow topsoil to dry slightly; avoid soggy roots
Temperature: 1828C; protect below 15C
Humidity: Moderate to high (6080%)
Soil: Chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix
Feed: Monthly in spring/summer; high-potassium for blooms
Growth: Climbing/trailing vine; elongated green leaves with five distinct veins; umbels of fragrant creamy-white flowers