Hoya sp. ‘Vietnam’ is a location-named, undescribed Hoya collected from Vietnam and circulated among growers under its place-of-origin name. It is valued for its handsome foliage, adaptable growth habit and strong flowering potential once mature. Like many Southeast Asian Hoyas, it is naturally epiphytic, growing on trees in warm, humid forests with bright, filtered light and excellent airflow. Replicating these conditions indoors allows this plant to thrive long term.

Plant Description

Hoya sp. Vietnam typically develops medium to large, thickened leaves with a firm, leathery texture. Leaf shape is usually oval to elongated with a softly pointed tip, and the surface ranges from satin to lightly glossy depending on light levels. Foliage colour is generally mid to deep green, sometimes with subtle veining that becomes more visible as the leaf matures.

The plant has a vigorous vining growth habit, producing long, flexible stems that extend steadily once established. It can be grown as a trailing plant in a hanging pot or trained onto a hoop or trellis, where its structure becomes more pronounced and tidy. Growth is usually steady rather than fast, contributing to a well-balanced, architectural form over time.

When mature, Hoya sp. Vietnam can produce rounded umbels of waxy, star-shaped flowers. Flower colour varies by clone but often includes soft creams, pale pinks or warm-toned hues with a contrasting central corona. The blooms may be lightly fragrant and, as with all Hoyas, emerge from persistent spurs that should never be removed.

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light is essential for healthy growth and flowering. A position near an east- or west-facing window is ideal, providing strong light without prolonged exposure to harsh midday sun.

Gentle morning or late-afternoon sun is usually beneficial and can encourage compact growth and blooming. In low light, growth will slow, internodes may stretch, and flowering is unlikely. Consistency is important, so avoid frequently moving the plant between locations.

Watering

Hoya sp. Vietnam prefers a soak-and-dry watering approach. Allow the top portion of the growing medium to dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly and allow excess moisture to drain completely.

During spring and summer, watering will be more regular as the plant is actively growing. In autumn and winter, reduce watering significantly, allowing the mix to dry further between waterings. Thanks to its thick leaves, the plant tolerates brief dryness far better than prolonged wet conditions.

Slight leaf wrinkling or softness usually indicates thirst, while yellowing leaves, soft stems or persistently damp compost suggest overwatering.

Temperature & Humidity

This Hoya thrives in warm, stable indoor temperatures, ideally between 18–28°C. It should be protected from cold draughts, unheated rooms and chilly windowsills, particularly in winter. Temperatures below 12°C can cause stress and growth stagnation.

Moderate to high humidity supports healthier foliage and stronger growth. While it adapts to average household humidity, it performs best when humidity remains above 50%. As always, good airflow is essential, especially in higher humidity environments, to prevent fungal issues.

Soil & Potting

A very free-draining, airy growing medium is essential. In nature, this plant’s roots receive moisture briefly before drying quickly. A chunky mix containing orchid bark, perlite or pumice, and a small amount of peat-free compost or coco coir works well.

Choose a pot that fits the root system closely rather than oversizing. Hoyas generally prefer to be slightly root-bound, and frequent repotting can delay flowering. Terracotta pots are particularly useful for moisture control.

Feeding

Feed lightly during the growing season. From spring through late summer, apply a balanced houseplant fertiliser at half strength every four to six weeks. This supports steady vegetative growth and future flower production without encouraging weak or excessive foliage.

Do not feed during autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.

Pruning & Training

Hoya sp. Vietnam benefits from gentle training early on. Guiding vines around a hoop or trellis helps maintain a neat structure and showcases the foliage evenly.

Pruning should be minimal and limited to removing damaged, weak or excessively long growth. Never remove flower spurs, as Hoyas rebloom from the same points year after year.

Flowering Care Tips

Flowering typically occurs once the plant is mature and fully settled. Stability is crucial. Avoid moving the plant or changing its environment when buds begin to form, as stress can cause bud drop.

Bright indirect light, warm temperatures, consistent watering and a slightly root-bound pot all increase the likelihood of flowering. Species-form Hoyas often prioritise foliage development first, so patience is essential.

Propagation

Propagation is best done via stem cuttings with at least two nodes. Cuttings can be rooted in water or in a well-aerated propagation mix. Warmth, humidity and bright indirect light encourage rooting, which usually occurs within a few weeks.

Overall Care Summary

Hoya sp. ‘Vietnam’ is a versatile, rewarding species-form Hoya that suits growers who appreciate steady growth, strong structure and long-term potential. It is not difficult, but it does require excellent drainage, warmth, consistent light and patience. Given stable conditions, it matures into a striking, long-lived plant with both attractive foliage and beautiful blooms.