Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’

Origin and Description: Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’ is suspected to be aff. forbesii, and is a truly unique Hoya. It has green, spear-like leaves and high contrast veining. This plant was found in Kalimantan, Indonesia and is relatively new to the US, having first been introduced in 2025. Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’ just bloomed for us this year! The blooms are an almost transparent white on the outside, and the inside is a beautiful milky white. 

Natural Habitat: Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’ thrives in the tropical forests of Indonesia as an epiphyte, or tree climber. This plant grows in humid, shaded environments, which is easily replicated indoors with proper care. Make sure you give it a trellis so it can climb!

Care Instructions:

• Light: Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’ prefers bright, indirect light. Since it's used to a canopy, avoid direct bright light as it might wash out the beautiful green color and damage the leaves. 
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Be sure to allow the water to drain completely, as standing water can cause root rot. Overwatering is a common issue, so it is important to let the soil dry out between waterings.
• Humidity: Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’ thrives in high humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%. If your home has lower humidity, you can supplement it by  placing it near a humidifier or putting it in a cabinet. Grouping it with other plants can also create a more humid microenvironment.
• Temperature: This plant prefers temperatures ranging from 60°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C). It does not tolerate cold well, so protect it from drafts and temperatures below 50°F.
• Soil: Use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix for Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’. A blend of orchid bark, perlite, and coco husk is ideal for providing aeration while preventing water from pooling at the roots. Repot the plant every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth.
• Fertilizer: During the growing season, feed Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’ with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month. This will help promote strong growth and blooming. Reduce fertilization during the fall and winter months when the plant's growth slows down.

Fun Fact: Hoya ‘Jungle Spear’ was originally considered aff. callistophylla based on its veination and thick mature leaves. However, after blooming, it’s now suspected to be an aff. forbesii.