Hoya finlaysonii (Sarawak) – Veined Foliage from Borneo’s Rainforest

Hoya finlaysonii (Sarawak) is a rare, visually bold form of Hoya finlaysonii Wight, originally found in the tropical rainforests of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Its standout feature? Leathery, light green leaves crisscrossed with nearly black venation — a natural pattern that looks almost hand-drawn. Thick and succulent in texture, the foliage alone makes this epiphytic vine an unforgettable centerpiece for any plant setup.
Why Hoya finlaysonii (Sarawak) Is So Special
 
Unique leaf structure: Rounded to ovate leaves with raised, webbed veins form a high-contrast pattern over pale green backgrounds — highly textured and sculptural.
 
Robust and resilient: The thick, waxy foliage stores moisture, making this Hoya more tolerant of dry air and short dry spells.
 
Versatile growth style: Vines can be trained up a trellis, hoop, or moss pole — or left to trail from a shelf or hanging planter.
Where It Comes From
This form of Hoya finlaysonii is native to the humid, shaded lowland forests of Sarawak. In its natural habitat, it grows epiphytically — climbing trees and thriving in consistent warmth, filtered light, and high humidity. Indoors, it adapts well to similar conditions, rewarding growers with vivid foliage and steady growth.
How to Care for Hoya finlaysonii (Sarawak)
 
Light: Bright, indirect light brings out the strongest contrast in leaf venation. A few hours of soft morning sun are fine, but harsh direct light can cause bleaching.
 
Watering: Let 80 – 90% of the substrate dry out before watering thoroughly. Always use a pot with drainage and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
 
Humidity: Best results at 60 – 75%. While it can tolerate less, it thrives with consistent moisture in the air.
 
Temperature: Ideal range is 18 – 26°C. Protect from cold drafts and never expose to temperatures below 12°C.
 
Substrate: Use a chunky, well-draining mix — orchid bark, perlite, coco chips, and a small portion of coir or peat for structure.
 
Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., NPK 3-1-2) monthly at half strength. Feed consistently when actively growing — not based on seasons.
Common Issues and How to Prevent Them
 
Yellowing leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Let soil dry more and inspect roots if yellowing spreads.
 
Root rot: Caused by dense or wet substrate. Use an airy mix and never let the potting medium stay soggy.
 
Pests: Mealybugs, scale, and spider mites may appear in dry environments. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
 
Dropped leaves: Often due to sudden temperature shifts or changes in light. Keep placement consistent and avoid moving frequently.
 
Crispy leaf edges: Common in low humidity or near heat sources. Raise humidity and move away from dry airflow.
Tips to Support Healthy Growth
 
Train or trail: Attach vines to a support or let them hang naturally. Both styles suit this cultivar well.
 
Prune wisely: Light trimming can control shape, but avoid cutting peduncles — flower stalks may rebloom from the same spot.
 
Propagate: Take stem cuttings with at least two nodes. Let cut ends callous before rooting in water, perlite, or moss.
Is Hoya finlaysonii (Sarawak) Toxic?
This Hoya is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, its milky sap may cause irritation in some cases — best to keep out of reach of pets and children just in case.
Name Origin and Meaning
The genus Hoya honors botanist Thomas Hoy. The species name finlaysonii commemorates Scottish naturalist George Finlayson, who collected plants during early 19th-century expeditions in Southeast Asia. “Sarawak” refers to the region of origin on the island of Borneo.
Bring Hoya finlaysonii (Sarawak) into your space and enjoy dramatic veining, rugged foliage, and easy-care tropical vibes — perfect for any rare plant lover.