Hoya scortechinii – Rare Climbing Epiphyte from Peninsular Malaysia

Hoya scortechinii King and Gamble (1908) is a tropical, epiphytic climber native to the forests of Peninsular Malaysia. Known for its unscented but delicate yellow-pink flowers and stiff, textured foliage, it grows vigorously in the wild by scrambling across trees or rock faces. With the right indoor setup, this adaptable species brings refined tropical character to shelves, trellises, or hanging planters — and makes an excellent, easy-care climbing Hoya for collectors and beginners alike.
Key Characteristics of Hoya scortechinii
 
Growth Habit: Vigorous, climbing or scrambling epiphyte reaching 2 – 3 m when mature.
 
Foliage: Thick, ovate-lanceolate leaves measuring 3 – 5 cm long and 1.5 – 2.5 cm wide, with faint venation and a leathery surface.
 
Blooms: Umbels of 5 – 20 pale yellow to pinkish flowers with reflexed lobes, around 7 – 8 mm wide. Unscented but visually elegant.
Indoor Care Tips for Hoya scortechinii
Lighting Requirements
 
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Tolerates some morning sun, but avoid strong midday rays.
 
Insufficient light will reduce blooming and lead to sparse, slow growth.
 
Read more in our guide on how much light your plant really needs.
Watering Routine
 
Water when the top 2 – 3 cm of the substrate feels dry. Avoid keeping the soil constantly moist.
 
Ensure drainage holes are present and empty any standing saucers after watering.
Humidity and Temperature
 
Thrives in 60 – 70% humidity but tolerates standard indoor levels if air isn’t too dry.
 
Maintain temperatures between 18 – 25 °C. Protect from drafts and sudden drops.
Soil and Repotting
 
Use a loose, well-draining mix of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat-free potting soil.
 
Repot when root-bound or if the mix degrades over time — usually every 2 – 3 years.
Feeding
 
Fertilize monthly with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer — year-round if the plant receives sufficient light.
 
Always water lightly before feeding to avoid fertilizer burn.
Solving Common Hoya scortechinii Issues
Yellowing Leaves
 
Cause: Overwatering, poor airflow, or soggy substrate.
 
Solution: Let soil dry more thoroughly, improve drainage, and reduce watering frequency.
Drooping Leaves
 
Cause: Underwatering or low humidity.
 
Fix: Water more consistently and maintain humidity above 50% if possible.
Root Rot
 
Cause: Soil that stays wet for too long.
 
Fix: Remove affected roots, replace with fresh mix, and reduce watering volume and frequency.
Common Pests
 
Mealybugs and Spider Mites: Appear under dry or dusty conditions. Check leaf undersides regularly.
 
Control: Treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Isolate if needed.
Growth and Propagation Advice
 
Support: Train on a moss pole, bamboo hoop, or trellis for upright growth — or let vines hang freely.
 
Propagation: Take stem cuttings with 2 – 3 nodes and root in water or sphagnum moss before transplanting.
 
Pruning: Cut back lanky stems to encourage branching. Do not remove peduncles, as flowers reappear on them.
Etymology and Botanical Context
The genus Hoya was named after British botanist Thomas Hoy. The species name scortechinii honors Rev. Benedetto Scortechini (1845 – 1886), an Italian missionary and botanist who contributed significantly to plant collecting in Peninsular Malaysia. The species was formally described in 1908 by King and Gamble in the Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hoya scortechinii
How do I propagate Hoya scortechinii successfully?
Take a cutting with at least two nodes and root it in water or moss. Once rooted, transfer to a light, airy mix and keep humidity high during transition.
Is Hoya scortechinii pet-safe or toxic?
It’s considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. Still, avoid allowing pets to chew the foliage, as irritation is possible.
How often should I water Hoya scortechinii?
Water when the top 2 – 3 cm of soil feels dry. Frequency varies by environment — typically every 7 – 10 days indoors.
How can I get Hoya scortechinii to bloom indoors?
Bright, indirect light, stable temperatures, and monthly feeding help trigger blooms. Don’t remove old peduncles — they rebloom over time.
Order Hoya scortechinii – Elegant, Rare, and Easy to Grow
Bring home the quiet beauty of Hoya scortechinii — an easy-care climbing Hoya with rare blooms and tough, sculptural foliage. Perfect for collectors and indoor gardeners alike.