Hoya 'Larisa' – Foliage-Focused Hybrid with Exotic Veining
Hoya 'Larisa' is a striking hybrid resulting from a cross between Hoya finlaysonii and Hoya meredithii. This combination brings together bold venation and vigorous climbing growth in one eye-catching plant. Known for its large, elongated leaves with sharply contrasting green veins on a lime to olive backdrop, this cultivar is a true statement piece for Hoya collectors and foliage lovers alike. While blooms may take time to appear, they offer subtle beauty and a gentle, citrus-like scent under ideal conditions.
Key Features of Hoya 'Larisa'

 
Leaf Appeal: Elongated leaves with dark, highly visible venation over a soft green background — each leaf is like a botanical painting.
 
Growth Habit: Fast-growing and climbing. Perfect for training on trellises, hoops, or allowing to trail in hanging baskets.
 
Bloom Characteristics: Small, off-white to pale pink star-shaped flowers with a light citrus scent. Blooms may appear on mature plants with stable conditions.
 
Durability: Thanks to its parentage, this hybrid is adaptable, fairly robust, and thrives with consistent care and high humidity.

Care Tips for Hoya 'Larisa'

 
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Some gentle morning or late afternoon sun is tolerated, but harsh midday rays may cause leaf damage.
 
Watering: Let the top 2 – 3 cm of soil dry out before watering. Adjust frequency based on temperature and light, not the season. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
 
Humidity: Thrives at 60%+ humidity but adapts to indoor levels. Use a pebble tray or humidifier if conditions are too dry — no need to mist leaves.
 
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining mix. A blend of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or chunky aroid mix is ideal.
 
Temperature: Keep between 18 – 26 °C. Avoid cold drafts and never expose to temperatures below 15 °C.
 
Fertilization: Feed every 4 – 6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength when the plant is actively growing.
 
Support: Provide a trellis or moss pole to guide vines and prevent tangling.
 
Repotting: Only when root-bound. Hoyas prefer tight pots and may bloom better in snug conditions.

Common Problems and Fixes

 
Yellow Leaves: Usually caused by excess moisture. Let soil dry more between waterings and use a breathable pot with drainage holes.
 
Brown Tips: Often a sign of low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity and keep watering regular.
 
Root Rot: Caused by soggy soil. Repot into fresh, airy substrate and trim affected roots.
 
Pests: Mealybugs and spider mites may hide along the veined leaves. Wipe down leaves and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.

Extra Growing Tips for Hoya 'Larisa'

 
Don’t remove peduncles: Hoya flowers emerge from the same stalks each time. Removing them delays future blooming.
 
Propagation: Easily propagated via stem cuttings with at least one node and a visible aerial root. Root in water, perlite, or sphagnum moss.
 
Flower triggers: Bright light, stable temps, tight roots, and patience. Blooms are more likely once the plant matures and acclimates.
 
Rotation: Turn the plant every few weeks for balanced, even growth along the support.

Toxicity & Safety

 
Non-toxic: Hoya 'Larisa' is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs, but best kept out of reach to avoid chewing.
 
Latex sap: Produces a white, sticky sap when cut. Use gloves if sensitive to latex.

FAQs about Hoya 'Larisa'

 
Will Hoya 'Larisa' bloom indoors? Yes, but only once mature and in stable, bright conditions. Be patient and don’t cut off peduncles.
 
Why is it not growing much? Larisa tends to focus on root and vine development before leafing out heavily. Ensure it has bright light and warm temps.
 
Can I grow it in a hanging basket? Yes, but since it’s a climber, it thrives best with a support structure to climb rather than trail freely.

Etymology
The genus Hoya is named after Thomas Hoy (1750 – 1822), an English botanist and gardener to the Duke of Northumberland. The hybrid name 'Larisa' was chosen by the breeder and does not reference a natural locality or species.
Why Add Hoya 'Larisa' to Your Collection?
Hoya 'Larisa' offers the perfect blend of exotic foliage and classic Hoya ease. With its dramatic leaf patterns, climbing growth, and fragrant flowers, it’s a rewarding plant for anyone ready to level up their indoor jungle. A must-have for finlaysonii lovers and rare plant collectors.