Hoya 'Larisa'

Origin and Description:
Discover the beauty of the Hoya 'Larisa' - a stunning hybrid of Hoya finlaysonii x Hoya meredithii. Hoya 'Larisa' was bred at Epyphitica nursery in Thailand and named for a plant collector from Russia. This plant boasts attractive leaves with dark green veins that provide a stunning backdrop to the delicate, small flowers that bloom in clusters.

The beauty of the Hoya 'Larisa' doesn't stop there. These gorgeous flowers are also accompanied by a delightful citrus scent that will fill your home or garden with a pleasant aroma.

Natural Habitat:
This hybrid mirrors the natural habitat of its parent species, which thrive as epiphytes in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. These plants grow in humid, shaded environments, which can be easily replicated indoors with proper care. 

Care Instructions:

• Light: Hoya 'Larisa' prefers lower or shaded light. Its leaves will lighten in color with higher light, so give it a lower light or a shaded environment to keep the rich green leaves and pillow-like appearance. 
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the 'Larisa' mostly dry. 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 'Larisa' thrives in lower humidity levels, ideally above 40%. That means this plant is an easy addition to any warm spot in your home.
• Temperature: This plant prefers warmer temperatures above 70 degrees F. Be aware: this hoya variety is particularly sensitive to cold! It will take damage under 70F, so keep it warm! If you live in a colder environment, make sure it's not living too close to a window in the winter time.
• Soil: Use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix for Hoya 'Larisa'. 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 'Larisa' 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:
Larisa, the plant collector after whom Hoya 'Larisa' was named, has two sisters named Irina and Svetlana. Those sisters also have popular hoya cultivars named after them!