Hoya phuwuaensis is a relatively new and exciting species to the Hoya collecting world. It was first discovered and brought into cultivation under the provisional name "Hoya sp. Phu Wua," referring to its place of origin.
Hoya phuwuaensis is native to Northeastern Thailand, specifically from the Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary in Bueng Kan Province. Some sources also indicate its range extending into Vietnam.
In its natural habitat, it grows as a climbing epiphyte (on trees) in wet tropical biomes, particularly in humid forest conditions. This implies it prefers good air circulation, high humidity, and bright, indirect light as it scrambles along tree trunks and branches.