Hoya manipurensis is an interesting and somewhat debated Hoya species, known for its distinctive foliage and charming, often unusually shaped, flowers. It has a complex taxonomic history, having been moved between genera.
Origin and Discovery
Hoya manipurensis is native to a region spanning Eastern Nepal to China (Southwest Yunnan). Its broader native range includes Assam (India), Bangladesh, China South-Central, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand. It grows as a subshrub or shrub, and has also been described as a creeper, suggesting its roots can grow into tree cracks. It primarily thrives in subtropical biomes.
The specific epithet "manipurensis" refers to Manipur, India, where the plant was first collected.
The species was formally published by Deb in 1955. However, its taxonomic journey is notable. It was previously classified under the genus Micholitzia as Micholitzia obcordata (published by N.E. Br. in 1909) and Dischidia as Dischidia obcordata. It was later moved back to Hoya in 2006 by Livia Wanntorp after DNA examination, helping to clarify its placement within the genus.
The original publication details are:
Deb, D. B. (1955). Journal of the Indian Botanical Society, Vol. 34, p. 50.
References to its current taxonomic status and past classifications can be found on resources like Plants of the World Online (POWO) by Kew Science: https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:98553-1.
Key Characteristics
Leaves: Hoya manipurensis is characterized by its small, fleshy, and somewhat thick leaves. The leaf shape is quite distinctive, often described as obtriangular, obcordate (inverted heart-shaped), or obovate (inverted egg-shaped). They are typically glossy, medium green, and can be sun-stressed to develop reddish hues when exposed to brighter light. Young leaves may not immediately show the prominent triangular shape, which develops with maturity.
Growth Habit: It grows as a subshrub or creeper. In cultivation, it tends to have a somewhat awkward or stiffly trailing growth habit. New stems might appear bushy but often don't maintain an upright stature for long, eventually cascading out of the pot. It is well-suited for hanging baskets or can be trained on a small support.
Flowers: The flowers are tiny, urn-shaped, and often described as resembling those of Dischidia more than typical Hoya blooms. They are strongly pubescent (hairy or fuzzy) and typically a yellow-orange or creamy-yellow color. They are produced in umbels of 5-8 flowers, often emerging from very short, almost invisible peduncles. The opening of the corolla is small, and the flowers produce deep orange nectar. They can last for up to 21 days. The fragrance is often described as subtle and sweet.
Care Requirements for Indoor Cultivation
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. It needs sufficient light to thrive and encourage blooming, but direct midday sun can scorch the leaves, especially if it's not acclimatized. An east or west-facing window is often ideal. It will "sunstress" (develop color) when exposed to appropriate bright light.
Watering: Like many Hoyas with fleshy leaves, it's crucial to allow the potting mix to dry out at least halfway, or even thoroughly, between waterings. It is susceptible to root rot if kept consistently wet. Reduce watering significantly in the cooler, darker winter months.
Humidity: Hoya manipurensis appreciates higher humidity, ideally 60% and above, with good air circulation.
Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures, typically between 16−35∘C
Soil: Requires a well-draining potting mix.
Potting: Hoyas generally prefer to be a bit snug in their pots, which can encourage flowering. Repot only when necessary.
