Hoya carnosa 'Compacta', also known as "curly porcelain flower" or "Hindu rope," is a variety of the common Hoya carnosa.

Originally, it comes from the tropical regions of Asia, where it grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and climbs upwards in search of light.

Botanical description

Origin: Southern China to Laos, Japan (S. Kyushu) to Taiwan

Scientific name: Hoya Carnosa, 'Compacta' is the cultivar

Habit: This Hoya has unique, tightly rolled and twisted leaves. The leaves are thick and waxy, which helps the plant store water and cope with drier conditions. The trailing growth habit makes it perfect for ampels or climbing frames, and it grows slowly, making it easy to manage in smaller spaces.

Flowers: Hoya carnosa 'Compacta' produces stunning, fragrant flowers that appear in clusters. The small, star-shaped flowers are pale pink with a darker pink center and have a waxy surface, giving them an almost artificial appearance. The flowers exude a sweet, honey-like scent and can bloom several times a year under optimal conditions.

Care: Place in bright, indirect light. In the winter months, a sunny window counts for this in our climate. Let the soil dry out between waterings. The thick leaves make the plant drought resistant. Use a well-drained soil mixture, preferably with elements of orchid bark or perlite.

Hoya carnosa 'Compacta' retains its old flower stalks (peduncles), so don't remove them! New flowers can appear from the same spot year after year. It is also known to be one of the Hoyas that can flower even when kept in a smaller pot – as long as it gets enough light and care. Buy Hoya carnosa 'compacta' online!