Commonly known as wax plants, hoyas get their name due to the waxy appearance of their flowers and leaves. The flowers have five triangular petals which resemble a star, with a star-shaped corona on top. Many species have a mutual relationship with ants, who keep the plants clean of pests, while living in special chambers on the stems and leaves known as domatia. The flowers are also laden with nectar, eaten by the ants as well as pollinators such as moths and flies. Hoyas are typically seen growing as basket plants, even in temperate climates indoors, where they cascade gracefully and bloom profusely. Many species and especially the hybrids are fragrant. Hoyas are a mostly epiphytic genus that consist of about two hundred species. They are found mostly in Asia, India, and the South Pacific – and this month in Selby Gardens! Learn more about this plant on the Botany blog.
To provide an oasis of inspiration and tranquility, while furthering the understanding and appreciation of plants, especially epiphytes.