The H. retusa is cherished for its unconventional foliage and minimalist charm. Unlike most Hoya, the retusa features thin, flat, grass-like leaves as opposed to the more common waxy and glossy foliage we see with Hoya. The leaves grow sparsely along wiry stems, giving it a whimsical, airy appearance. The foliage has a delicate, understated elegance.

Hoyas are generally slow growers compared to many leafy tropical plants, but with a little patience, they can live and thrive for decades.

Hoyas are "epiphytic” meaning they anchor themselves and  grow upon the surface of other plants such as trees using them as a living scaffold to sprawl or climb. When provided with favourable conditions, Hoya produces fragrant, long-lasting blooms. Although they look lovely when we allow their foliage to cascade freely, be mindful that they are naturally climbers, so they can also be trained to grow upon a trellis or vine against something to guide vertical growth. 

CARE:

• Thrives with consistent bright, indirect light. A few hours of morning or later afternoon sun can be beneficial, but avoid prolonged exposure to intense, direct midday sun, especially during the hottest summer months, which can fade or scorch the leaves, and potentially dry out emerging flowers.

• Watering needs can vary depending on the potting media. If the Hoya is in potting soil, you typically want to wait for the soil to be about 70-90 percent dry before watering. If the Hoya is in a chunkier mix (intended for epiphytes), then you will typically have to water more frequently since water is bound to work its way through the potting media quickly. In the case of chunkier media, water when the first 1/4-1/3 of the substrate feels dry. It is essential to Hoya health to refrain from keeping any potting media constantly wet, as Hoyas can be sensitive to overwatering, and this can quickly lead to root rot.

• Does best with moderate to high humidity, which can help it bloom, but this plant is adaptable to household humidity. However, you may be less likely to observe blooms.

• As epiphytic plants, Hoyas tolerate slightly crowded roots. They can usually remain in the same pot for several years before needing to be repotted.