Hoya pubicalyx (Harlequin Wax Plant)

Hoya pubicalyx is a vigorous tropical climbing plant in the Apocynaceae family, native to the Philippines and among the most widely cultivated hoyas for its ornamental foliage and blooms.

The stems are long and twining, bearing narrow leathery leaves often marked with silver or gray flecking. Flowers are arranged in rounded umbels and vary by clone or cultivar from pale pink to deep burgundy or near-black purple, with contrasting centers and a glossy wax-like surface. They are typically fragrant, especially in the evening, and may produce visible nectar droplets.

Hoya pubicalyx grows best in bright filtered light with warm temperatures, good air circulation, and fast-draining epiphytic substrates. It appreciates moderate watering with drying periods between irrigations and benefits from support for its climbing stems. Commonly grown as a hanging basket or trellised container plant, it adapts well to indoor conditions when humidity and light are adequate. It is generally suited to USDA Zones 10-11 and should be protected from temperatures below about 50F.