Hoya callistophylla IML 3576 ‘Black Cat’ – Rare Climber with Bold Veining
 
Hoya callistophylla IML 3576 ‘Black Cat’ is a rare and highly desirable clone celebrated for its bold, dark-green leaves marked by deep, embossed veins and its clusters of sweetly scented, star-shaped flowers. Originating from the humid lowland forests of Sabah, Borneo, this vigorous climbing species thrives indoors with steady warmth, bright light, and patient care. For collectors seeking both foliage drama and reliable flowering, ‘Black Cat’ is a true standout.
 
 
What Makes Hoya callistophylla ‘Black Cat’ Unique
Distinctive Veining: Broad, leathery leaves with strikingly dark, recessed veins that intensify with maturity.
Vigorous Climber: Rapid-growing, semi-woody vines ideal for moss poles, trellises, or hanging baskets.
Scented Umbels: Clusters of pale yellow to greenish blooms releasing a gentle, sweet fragrance.
Adaptable Indoors: Handles typical indoor humidity and bright, filtered light with ease.
 
 
Essential Facts About Hoya callistophylla ‘Black Cat’
Origin: Lowland forests of Sabah, Borneo.
Growth Form: Epiphytic climber with trailing or twining vines.
Leaf Size: Mature leaves may exceed 20 cm under ideal conditions.
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans; the latex may cause mild irritation if ingested or handled by sensitive pets.
 
 
Care Guide for Hoya callistophylla ‘Black Cat’
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid harsh midday sun that can scorch foliage.
Water: Let the top 2–3 cm of substrate dry before watering again. Overwatering is the main cause of root issues.
Humidity: Ideal above 60%, tolerates down to 45% if airflow is good.
Temperature: Best range 18–28 °C; protect from cold drafts.
Substrate: Loose, airy mix such as orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and a small portion of compost.
Fertilizer: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
Propagation: Stem cuttings root easily in water, perlite, or sphagnum moss under warm, humid conditions.
Pruning: Trim long vines to shape and encourage blooms from older spurs.
 
 
Troubleshooting Tips
Yellowing Leaves: Most often from excess watering—let the mix dry further before watering.
Curling or Speckled Leaves: Check for spider mites or mealybugs and correct humidity levels.
No Flowers Yet: Keep the plant slightly root-bound and provide consistent bright light; Hoya blooms increase with maturity.
 
Extra Growing Advice
To mimic its native habitat, offer stable warmth, bright filtered light, and allow roots to fill the pot before repotting. Flowering improves with age, so avoid frequent disturbances. With proper care, ‘Black Cat’ becomes a show-stopping statement plant that rewards patience with both lush foliage and sweetly perfumed blooms.
 
Botanical Background and Etymology
Hoya callistophylla was first described by T. Green in Fraterna 13(4): 2 (2000) and belongs to the family Apocynaceae. The name derives from Greek: kallos meaning “beautiful” and phylla meaning “leaf,” directly referencing its strikingly veined foliage. Clone IML 3576 was collected in Sabah, Borneo, by David Liddle and is distinguished by darker pigmentation compared to typical forms.
 
FAQs – Hoya callistophylla ‘Black Cat’
Is ‘Black Cat’ an officially registered cultivar?
No. It’s a collector’s name used for this darker-leaved clone of Hoya callistophylla IML 3576.
Does it need support to climb?
Yes. Providing a trellis or pole allows natural vertical growth and encourages blooming.
How long does it take to flower?
Usually 1–2 years under stable indoor conditions with bright light and minimal repotting.
 
 
Add Hoya callistophylla ‘Black Cat’ to Your Collection
If you’re looking for a striking, fast-growing Hoya with rich color and texture, Hoya callistophylla IML 3576 ‘Black Cat’ is the perfect choice. Order yours today and bring a touch of Borneo’s rainforest elegance into your home.