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Hoya pubicalyx (Hoya pubicalyx)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Hoya pubicalyx

Beginner

Hoya pubicalyx

A Philippine Hoya with long, fleshy leaves speckled silver. Its flowers are showiest and most fragrant at night, and appear on a Philippine coin.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
15〜30℃
Lifespan
Perennial climber
Size
A climber that trails or twines along supports
Humidity
60〜70%
Watering
Dilute liquid feed in the growing season

About

Hoya pubicalyx is an epiphytic climber in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) from the rainforests of Luzon in the Philippines. The epithet refers to its hairy calyx. It has succulent, lance-shaped leaves, often flecked with silver, and selections such as 'Silver Pink' and the white-and-pink speckled 'Splash' are sold. In strong light the young leaves turn reddish, a protective anthocyanin response, and mature leaves grown in good light take on a silvery-pink tone. The flowers are most noticeable and fragrant at night. They appear on the Philippine five-centavo coin. It is sometimes confused with Hoya carnosa, so check the scientific name on the label. Plants can take around two years to mature and flower. It is widely available from houseplant shops and online retailers in Japan. It likes to be pot-bound and rarely needs repotting.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Basic Info

Origin

Philippines (Luzon)

Lifespan

Perennial climber

Size

A climber that trails or twines along supports

Temperature

15〜30℃

Humidity

60〜70%

Watering & Fertilizer

Dilute liquid feed in the growing season

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

A bright window with indirect light is ideal. Limit direct sun to about two hours in the morning; stronger light scorches the leaves.

Watering

In the growing season water thoroughly after the mix dries; in autumn and winter water less often. Filtered or rain water is preferable to tap water.

Temperature & Overwintering

Frost-tender; keep above 10°C. Aim for 60-70% humidity and avoid direct airflow from heaters or air conditioners.

Soil & Repotting

Use a free-draining mix in a well-drained pot such as terracotta. It likes being pot-bound, so repot only occasionally, and give it a support to climb.

Propagation

Propagate by stem cuttings.

Pests & Cautions

Watch for mealybugs, aphids and whiteflies. Do not remove old flower spurs, which bloom again in later years. North Carolina State Extension lists this species as non-toxic to dogs and cats.

HoyaWax plantSilver specklesClimber

Hoya pubicalyx FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Hoya pubicalyx?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QHow should I water and fertilize Hoya pubicalyx?
A

Hoya pubicalyx: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid feed in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Hoya pubicalyx?
A

The price of Hoya pubicalyx varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: September 23, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Hoya pubicalyx Merr.

Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.

Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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