Hoya endauensis

The Johore origin of Hoya endauensis

Hoya endauensis comes from Johore in Peninsular Malaysia, where it grows in wet tropical habitat. The species was described in 1989.

Keeping Hoya endauensis growing in lightly moist mix

Hoya endauensis needs a mix that stays slightly moist. Check the pot’s weight and moisture deeper inside; water while a little moisture remains, before the root ball dries out. Soak and drain fully. When growth slows, water less frequently as drying slows, while retaining that slight moisture.

Use chunky mix in a pot with drainage holes. Let the small stems creep over the pot edge or a surface. Give bright indirect light, protection from hot sun and about 18–24°C. High humidity is useful; use a humidifier with gentle airflow around the foliage.

Apply a light balanced orchid feed about every two weeks during new growth, following the label. Pause when growth stops and flush occasionally with plain water. Repot one size larger once roots fill the container. Check whether the fresh mix already contains fertiliser, and follow its feeding guidance.

Root a one- or two-node stem cutting in lightly moist sphagnum, with the lower leaves removed. Use a clean blade and wear gloves, as the sap can irritate skin. Use a container with drainage holes and keep the remaining leaves above the moss. Place the cutting somewhere warm with indirect light and humid air. Once rooted, pot into airy mix.

Wilting, root decline and mites

• Small leaves become limp or start to shrivel: Promptly check whether the mix around the roots has dried out; this plant is sensitive to drying. 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.
• Soft, yellowing growth despite wet roots: 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. During recovery, keep the fresh mix around the remaining roots slightly moist and let excess water drain. Keep it from drying out.
• New speckling (stippling) or webbing on the small leaves: Inspect damaged leaf undersides with magnification; tapping a leaf over white paper can help locate mites. Confirm spider mites before treatment. Isolate the plant, gently rinse both leaf surfaces and let water drain. Recheck every few days and repeat rinsing while live mites remain.

Hoya endauensis 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.

What does Hoya endauensis mean, and who first published it?

Hoya honours the English gardener Thomas Hoy. The species epithet endauensis refers to Ulu Endau in Peninsular Malaysia.

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

Ruth Kiew first described Hoya endauensis in 1989 in Malayan Nature Journal, volume 42, page 261.