Hoya finlaysonii (Sukhirin)

A Hoya finlaysonii form associated with Sukhirin

Sukhirin is in southern Thailand, within the native range of Hoya finlaysonii from southern Thailand to western Malesia. The exact collection site is unknown. The species grows as a large-leaved climbing epiphyte in wet tropical forest.

Care for Hoya finlaysonii (Sukhirin)

• Support and leaf space: Install the support early, before exploratory growth hardens. Keep a green, firm searching stem and guide it onto the support.
• Light around the foliage: Keep the narrow veined leaves close to a bright window while filtering strong midday sun. Place the runner where daylight reaches the newest node; compact internodes and clear venation indicate sufficient light.
• Watering: Give a complete watering when the top layer has dried. The roots need air between waterings as much as they need a full soak.
• Potting mix: A bark-rich mix with pumice suits the sturdy roots; keep fine material away from the stem base. A pot close to the root mass makes the mix easier to check before watering.
• Sukhirin form: This Thai locality form has long firm leaves with strong reticulation and gently uneven margins. Guide the runner early.
• Temperature and airflow: Do not leave the root ball against cold glass or in motionless humid air. Use moderate humidity with open airflow and a porous root mix.
• Feeding: Begin modest balanced feeding when the runner starts to extend. Apply the dilute solution only after the root ball has been moistened.

Common issues with Hoya finlaysonii (Sukhirin)

• The lower stem turns soft although the veined leaves still hold their shapeLikely cause: The central roots are still wet even though the surface appears ready for water.What to do: Let excess moisture leave the pot, then improve aeration and lengthen the interval before the next soak.Urgent warning: Save a firm green node as soon as black or soft tissue advances into the vine.
• New growth remains pale and fails to expand fullyLikely cause: The growing point is alive, although the roots cannot yet support a new leaf.What to do: Place the tip where it has room to extend, keep it in bright filtered light and water after the upper mix dries. Resume feeding only after a new leaf is clearly expanding. Keep the growing point while it remains firm and green.
• A new firm veined blade hardens with a fold from the trellisLikely cause: A weak frame or tight fastening is restricting the tip.What to do: Shift the fastener to an internode and use a soft loose tie below the leaf. A firm mature leaf should remain as it is. A hardened bend can remain. Cut the section back only if the stem is split, soft or decaying.
• Large leaf margins brown after repeated feedingLikely cause: Fertiliser salts have accumulated in a slowly drying root ball.What to do: Leach the pot slowly with plain water until drainage runs clear, then remove all liquid from the saucer. Pause feeding for one or two waterings, then return at half strength after new growth appears.

Hoya finlaysonii (Sukhirin) and pet safety

Hoya finlaysonii (Sukhirin) is treated as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Chewing leaves or stems can still cause temporary drooling, vomiting or diarrhoea. Keep the plant out of reach of pets that chew foliage, and contact a veterinarian if symptoms are severe or persistent.

A Thai form of the Hoya named for George Finlayson

Scottish naturalist George Finlayson is commemorated by Hoya finlaysonii. Sukhirin is the southern Thai district associated with this accession.