Hoya ‘Black Dragon’ is a rare and dramatic cultivar in the Apocynaceae family, treasured by collectors for its bold, glossy foliage and unique flowers. Like other Hoyas, it is an epiphytic vine, originating from Southeast Asian tropical forests, where it grows along trees and rocks.

The plant produces thick, succulent-like leaves that are dark green, often so deep in tone they appear almost black, hence the name. The foliage is oval to lance-shaped, with a leathery texture that helps the plant store water and endure short dry spells.

When mature, Hoya ‘Black Dragon’ produces stunning umbels of star-shaped flowers. The blooms are typically deep maroon to near-black with a glossy finish, accented by a contrasting corona in lighter shades of red or cream. They are not only ornamental but also fragrant, especially in the evening.

Hoya ‘Black Dragon’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch dark foliage, though some morning or evening sun is beneficial for flowering.

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Leaves will store some water, so the plant tolerates mild drought better than waterlogging. Reduce watering slightly in winter.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–28°C. Avoid temperatures below 15°C.

• Humidity: Grows best in moderate to high humidity (50–70%). Mist occasionally or place near a humidifier if air is very dry.

Soil and Potting

Use a chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix such as orchid bark, perlite, and coco husk blended with peat-free compost. Hoyas like to be slightly root-bound, so repot only every 2–3 years.

Feeding

Feed every 4 weeks in spring and summer with a high-potassium fertiliser to encourage flowering. No feeding is required in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Trim vines to control length and encourage branching. Do not remove flower spurs (peduncles), as Hoyas bloom repeatedly from the same sites.

Growth and Maturity

A moderate grower, developing long trailing vines that can reach over 1 metre in time. Produces flowers once mature and when grown in bright, warm, and humid conditions.

Common Issues

• No flowers: Often due to insufficient light or removal of flower spurs.

• Yellowing leaves: Caused by overwatering.

• Shrivelled leaves: Sign of prolonged drought.

• Pests: Occasionally mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites.

Background and Benefits

Hoyas are commonly called Wax Plants because of their thick, glossy foliage and waxy blooms. Hoya ‘Black Dragon’ stands out for its nearly black flowers – one of the darkest blooms in the Hoya family – making it a striking conversation piece in any collection.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates gentle morning sun

• Water: Allow topsoil to dry slightly; avoid waterlogging

• Temperature: 18–28°C; avoid below 15°C

• Humidity: Moderate to high (50–70%)

• Soil: Chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer, high-potassium for flowers

• Growth: Trailing or climbing vine; glossy dark foliage; umbels of near-black fragrant flowers