Hoya DS-70 – Compact Trailing Gem with Glossy Leaves and Coral-Pink Blooms
 
Hoya DS-70 is a compact, resilient vining epiphyte admired for its glossy green leaves edged in warm bronze tones – and its clusters of star-shaped coral-pink flowers. Long traded under collector code DS-70 (IML-1578) and often mistaken for Hoya burtoniae or Hoya bilobata – this plant stands out through its slightly larger leaves, richer leaf color, and sweetly scented blooms that last several days. It’s an adaptable, fast-growing Hoya that looks just as good trailing from a shelf as it does climbing a small trellis.
 
Distinctive Growth & Appearance
Each leaf is oval, slightly fleshy, and about 3–5 cm long, developing a velvety gloss and reddish edges under bright light. Mature vines produce umbels of 15–25 waxy flowers with coral to deep-pink corollas and pale-yellow coronas that release a mild honey scent in the evening. The nectar glistens on each bloom – attracting attention even before you notice the fragrance. DS-70 keeps a neat, compact form and grows moderately fast when warm and bright.
 
Natural Origin & Background
Native to the humid forests of Southeast Asia – most likely the Philippines – Hoya DS-70 grows as an epiphyte on tree branches, where roots cling to bark and absorb moisture from the air. Its trade name comes from an early grower code rather than a formal scientific description – but it has remained widely recognized among collectors and nurseries worldwide.
 
Care & Cultivation
Light: Bright, indirect light keeps the foliage compact and colorful. A few hours of morning or late-afternoon sun improve flowering. Avoid harsh midday rays.
Watering: Let the substrate dry almost completely between waterings. Water thoroughly, then drain well. Persistent moisture causes root rot.
Humidity: Moderate to high (50–70 %) is ideal – but DS-70 adapts well to typical indoor humidity.
Temperature: Grows best at 20–28 °C – and should never drop below 15 °C.
Soil: Use a very airy epiphytic mix – bark, perlite, and coco chips in roughly equal parts. Excellent drainage is essential.
Feeding: Apply a balanced or bloom-boost fertilizer at half strength every 3–4 weeks during active growth.
Propagation: Stem cuttings with one or two nodes root easily in water, moss, or semi-hydro substrates.
Flowering: Hoya DS-70 re-flowers from old peduncles – so never remove them after blooming.
 
Common Problems & Fixes
Wrinkled leaves: Underwatering or prolonged drought.
Soft yellow leaves: Overwatering or poorly draining mix.
No blooms: Insufficient light or excess nitrogen fertilizer.
Sticky residue: Normal floral nectar – not pests – if only near flowers.
 
Extra Notes
Like most Hoyas, DS-70 produces a small amount of milky latex sap – mildly irritating if ingested or if it contacts sensitive skin. It’s best kept out of reach of pets and children. The plant itself is hardy and forgiving, tolerating short dry spells and moderate neglect – making it suitable for both new growers and seasoned collectors. It also adapts well to inert or semi-hydro substrates, provided the roots dry slightly between nutrient cycles.
 
Why You’ll Love Hoya DS-70
Compact size, glossy foliage, and coral-pink blooms that drip with fragrance make this plant an easy favorite for anyone wanting a colorful, low-maintenance trailing vine. It’s ideal for hanging planters, wall trellises, or bright windowsills – and thrives in both natural and artificial light setups.
 
FAQs
1. How long do Hoya DS-70 flowers last?
Each bloom cluster lasts around five to seven days – sometimes longer in cooler indoor conditions – and the peduncles will rebloom repeatedly throughout the year when light and feeding are steady.
2. Why isn’t my Hoya DS-70 flowering?
Usually because of low light, too much nitrogen fertilizer, or cutting off the old peduncles. Bright, indirect light and balanced feeding encourage repeat flowering.
3. Can Hoya DS-70 grow in semi-hydro setups?
Yes – it adapts very well to inert or semi-hydro substrates such as expanded clay or pon. Allow the roots to dry slightly between nutrient cycles to prevent root stress.
 
Bring a touch of warmth and tropical charm into your home with Hoya DS-70 – an easy-care, fast-blooming vine that rewards patience with glossy leaves and clusters of coral-pink stars.