Hoya deykei

Botanical identity and natural origin of Hoya deykei

Hoya deykei is native to Sumatra, where it grows in wet tropical habitat.

Growing Hoya deykei at home

Provide a trellis in bright indirect light, shielding the leaves from hot direct sun. Aim for 60–80% humidity with gentle airflow. A range near 16–24 °C suits growth; avoid long periods below 10 °C.

Use chunky potting mix in a container with drainage holes. During growth, water when the pot is lighter and the deeper mix is only lightly moist. Soak the root ball and drain. When growth slows, let the mix become fairly dry between waterings, stopping short of complete drying.

Apply a light balanced orchid feed about every two weeks while new growth develops, and pause when it stops.

Once roots fill the container, move to a pot one size larger.

Root a healthy one- or two-node stem cutting in a lightly moist, airy medium. Keep it warm in bright indirect light and pot it on once the new root system is established.

What to check when Hoya deykei is struggling

• Heart-shaped leaves lose firmness in a dry pot: Check whether the mix around the roots is dry. If the root ball is dry, water thoroughly and drain. If the leaves still wilt after watering, inspect the roots. Avoid repeated watering while the roots are still wet.
• Yellowing or wilting while the mix stays wet: Persistent wetness can damage roots. Drain trapped water and inspect roots if decline continues. If you find a small amount of root rot, use a clean, disinfected tool to cut the soft roots back to firm, healthy tissue. Throw away the rotten roots and old mix. Repot in fresh, airy mix, using a clean pot just large enough for the roots that remain. The pot must have drainage holes. If decay is widespread, save only healthy stem cuttings. Discard the plant if no healthy stems remain, and disinfect your tools afterwards.
• New dry patches on the light-facing leaf surface: Hot sun or a sudden increase in light can scorch leaves. Move the plant into bright, filtered light. If you later move it to a brighter position, introduce the stronger light gradually. Existing dry patches will not recover; retain healthy foliage.

Hoya deykei is non-toxic to people and pets

• This plant is non-toxic to people, cats and dogs.
• Chewing a large amount can still cause an upset stomach.
• If a large amount is eaten and symptoms continue, contact a veterinarian or medical professional.

How the name Hoya deykei came about

Hoya honours the English gardener Thomas Hoy. Hoya deykei honours Deyke van Donkelaar of the Netherlands.

Robert Brown established the genus Hoya in 1810 in Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae, page 459.

Ted Green first described Hoya deykei in 2000 in Fraterna, volume 13, issue 1, page 15.