Hoya bauensis (fka sp. Kast)

Origin and Discovery:
Hoya bauensis (fka sp. Kast), originates from Bau, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Hoya collectors appreciate Hoya bauensis (fka sp. Kast) for its large green leaves with beautiful dark veins. It was cultivated and circulated under the name sp. Kast for many years before it was finally recognized and described as a unique species and received its scientific name, bauensis, in 2021.

The blooms of Hoya bauensis (fka sp. Kast) are creamy with a hint of yellow with a stark red center. Mature blooms come out like a big ball of flower, making it a striking addition to your collection!

Natural Habitat:
In its natural habitat, Hoya bauensis (fka sp. Kast) grows as an epiphyte (tree climber), thriving in the crevices of trees and rocky landscapes. It also has thick, succulent-like leaves, which makes it drought tolerant and a great, low-maintenance houseplant. It enjoys the warm and humid conditions typical of tropical environments, though it can also thrive in low to medium humidity. 

Care Instructions:

• Light: Hoya bahoi prefers low to medium light for ideal growing and blooming conditions. Its leaves may become smaller or turn a lighter green in higher light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight that can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water thoroughly when Hoya bahoi is 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 bahoi thrives in low to medium humidity, despite its typical native humidity levels. This makes it the perfect, low-maintenance plant to display in any ambient spot throughout your home. Just don't forget that bright indirect light!
• 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 bahoi. 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 bahoi 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: This plant was collected by Arne Kastberg. Interestingly, while most plants with the sp. designation are named for the region in which they were found, this plant went by sp. Kast for many years, with the sp. designation going to its collector versus the region in which it was found. When it was eventually named in 2021, the location from which it was collected, Bau, was given the nod. Broken down, bauensis = bau (named after Bau, Sarawak, Malaysia) + ensis (originating in).