Hoya lacunosa aka Hoya Lacunosa

Hoya lacunosa is an evergreen vine in the dogbane family. Gardeners also call it cinnamon hoya or furrowed hoya. Its native range spans southern Myanmar to western and central Malesia. It grows in wet tropical forests, often along their edges. It climbs tree trunks and branches, or grows on rocks. Its compact form suits pots and hanging baskets indoors.

Thin green stems creep, climb, or hang over pot rims. They reach about 5 feet [1.5 metres] long. Roots form at nodes along the stems. The plant grows fast under suitable conditions. Its paired leaves feel thick, firm, and smooth. Their glossy, deep green blades range from oval to lanceolate. Sunken patches lie between the veins on the upper surface. These small hollows give the species its name. Dense leaves make the trailing stems useful for foliage displays.

Summer brings hanging umbels with as many as 30 flowers. Each small bloom has five lobes that curl back. Fine hairs give the white to pale yellow flowers a fuzzy look. A yellow corona sits at the centre of each flower. The cinnamon scent grows stronger after dark and early in the morning. Individual blooms can last up to five days. Keep old flower stalks, since they can bloom again. The plant draws butterflies and other pollinators. Its fruit is a dry, narrow, lance-shaped follicle.

Give this hoya bright, indirect light or partial shade. Strong direct sun can scorch its leaves. Too little light leads to weak, stretched growth. Use an acidic potting mix that drains well. An orchid mix suits its roots and need for air. Keep the mix moist, but allow some drying between waterings. Reduce water in winter and avoid pots that stay wet. It favours temperatures of 68–77°F and humidity of 50–70%. Its outdoor hardiness range is USDA zones 10b–12b. Stem cuttings offer a way to grow new plants.

This species needs little routine care and suits beginners. Prune to shape it or remove dead growth. Watch for mealybugs and spider mites, though serious pest problems are uncommon. Excess water can rot the roots. Powdery mildew and leaf spot may also occur. NC State lists it as non-toxic to cats and dogs. However, its milky sap may irritate human skin. Wear gloves when handling damaged stems or taking cuttings. Chinese traditional practice uses the plant for wounds and insect bites. This reported use does not establish it as food.