Hoya sp. ‘Ternate’ is a rare and still-unofficially classified Hoya species, collected from the island of Ternate in the Maluku Islands, Indonesia. As with many Hoyas identified by their place of origin, sp. ‘Ternate’ is highly desirable among collectors for its unique foliage and blooms, even though it has not yet been formally described in botany.

The plant produces strong, trailing or climbing vines lined with thick, succulent-like leaves. The foliage is oval to slightly elongated, medium to dark green, often with faint silver speckling depending on growing conditions. The leathery texture allows the plant to store water, making it resilient and easy to grow compared to thinner-leaved Hoyas.

When mature, Hoya sp. ‘Ternate’ produces clusters (umbels) of star-shaped flowers. These are typically white to cream with pinkish coronas, releasing a sweet fragrance, particularly in the evenings. Its combination of decorative leaves and perfumed blooms make it a standout Hoya for both beginners and serious enthusiasts.

Hoya sp. ‘Ternate’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Can tolerate soft morning or late-afternoon sun. Too little light may reduce flowering, while harsh direct sun may scorch foliage.

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. It prefers to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.

Temperature and Humidity

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

• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (60–80%) promotes lush foliage and flowering. Will adapt to average household conditions but benefits from misting or a humidifier in drier climates.

Soil and Potting

Use a chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix – orchid bark, perlite, and coco husk mixed with a little compost is ideal. Hoyas enjoy being slightly root-bound, so only repot every 2–3 years.

Feeding

Feed every 4 weeks during spring and summer with a high-potassium fertiliser to encourage flowering. Stop feeding in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune long vines to encourage bushier growth. Do not remove flower spurs (peduncles), as Hoyas bloom repeatedly from the same sites.

Growth and Maturity

A moderate grower, producing vines that can trail or climb over a metre in time. Flowers appear once the plant is mature and established in bright conditions.

Common Issues

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

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Shrivelled leaves: Prolonged underwatering.

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

Background and Benefits

Like many Hoyas named after their place of discovery, Hoya sp. ‘Ternate’ is prized for its rarity and exotic origins. It is considered relatively easy to care for compared to more delicate species, making it an excellent option for those looking to expand into rarer Hoyas.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates gentle morning sun

• Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings

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

• Humidity: Moderate to high (60–80%)

• Soil: Chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer with high-potassium fertiliser

• Growth: Trailing or climbing vine with leathery green leaves and clusters of white-pink fragrant flowers