Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
Hoya Sarawak is a highly sought-after tropical Hoya known for its large, thick, rounded leaves with prominent veining and a beautifully textured surface. The substantial foliage can develop attractive reddish or bronze tones when grown in brighter light, while mature vines may produce clusters of waxy, star-shaped flowers. Its oversized leaves and bold appearance make it an excellent choice for Hoya collectors, trellises, shelves, and bright indoor spaces.
The plant commonly sold as Hoya Sarawak is generally Hoya latifolia, a variable species native to parts of Southeast Asia. “Sarawak” refers to the Malaysian state on the island of Borneo associated with this collected form. It may also be encountered in the plant trade under older or collector-specific naming, so labels can vary between growers.
Hoya Sarawak does best in bright, indirect light. Plenty of filtered light encourages healthy growth and can help promote flowering once the plant is mature. Some gentle morning or late-afternoon sun can also encourage attractive coloration in the foliage, but avoid suddenly exposing the plant to intense direct sunlight.
Water thoroughly when the upper portion of the soil has dried and allow excess water to drain. Its thick leaves store moisture, so it generally prefers to dry somewhat between waterings rather than remaining consistently wet. Avoid allowing the roots to sit in soggy soil.
Use a well-draining, chunky potting mix and a pot with drainage. A mixture containing orchid bark, perlite or pumice, coco coir, and a small amount of quality houseplant soil works well. The goal is to provide excellent airflow around the roots while retaining enough moisture to prevent them from drying excessively quickly.
Hoya Sarawak prefers warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. It adapts to normal household conditions but generally produces its best growth with consistent warmth and additional humidity. Good airflow is beneficial, particularly in higher-humidity environments.
This plant has a climbing and vining growth habit and benefits from a sturdy trellis or other support as it matures. Its leaves can become quite large and heavy, so stronger support may be needed as the plant grows. Avoid removing old flower spurs, or peduncles, after blooming because Hoyas can produce flowers repeatedly from the same structures.
Hoya Sarawak is generally considered pet-friendly and non-toxic to cats and dogs. As with any houseplant, eating large amounts of plant material may still cause mild digestive upset, so it is best to discourage pets from chewing on the foliage.
Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
