Hoya obovata guide
Hoya obovata, also called obovata, round-leaf hoya
Published 2026-11-08
Quick care
- Light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- When the soil is almost dry
- Humidity
- Average room air is fine. Thin-leaved types like more.
- Temperature
- 16 to 27°C (60 to 80°F). Keep above 10°C (50°F).
- Soil
- Chunky mix of potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite
- Feeding
- Half-strength fertilizer monthly in spring and summer
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Mature size
- Vines trail or climb 1 to 3 m (3 to 10 ft)
- Propagation
- Stem cuttings with a node, rooted in water or moss
- Where to buy
- Plant shops
This page covers what makes hoya obovata different. For light, water, soil, pests, and the rest, read the hoya care guide.
What it is
Hoya obovata has big, round, thick leaves, often speckled with silver. The leaves grow in pairs and can reach 10 cm (4 in) across. It climbs well and blooms with clusters of pale pink flowers with a dark pink center. The flowers have a sweet scent.
How to tell it apart
| Plant | Leaves | The tell |
|---|---|---|
| Obovata | Round, thick, silver speckles | Round, not notched |
| Sweetheart hoya | Thick, heart-shaped | Notch at the top makes a heart |
| Hoya australis | Round to oval, glossy, no speckles | Shiny and plain green |
Care differences
Its big, thick leaves store water. Let the soil get almost dry before watering. It grows faster than sweetheart hoya. Give it a trellis or a hoop to climb.
Grow it from a cutting
Cut a vine with at least two nodes. Root it in water or moist sphagnum. Roots form in two to four weeks.
Buying it
Obovata is sold at plant shops and online. Variegated forms, with cream edges or centers, cost more. Look for firm, flat leaves.