Hoya shepherdii

Hoya shepherdii is a distinctive epiphytic climbing Hoya native to the eastern Himalayas and Assam, best known for its unusually long, narrow, succulent leaves that resemble green beans, giving it the popular name “String Bean Hoya.” The slender, trailing or climbing stems are densely covered with glossy dark-green foliage, creating an elegant cascading appearance. Mature plants produce charming umbels of small, waxy, star-shaped flowers, typically creamy white with pink to reddish centers, accompanied by a sweet fragrance that becomes especially noticeable in the evening. Its unusual foliage, fragrant flowers, and graceful growth habit make H. shepherdii a highly attractive species for collectors and hanging displays.

Care Tips:

• Provide bright, filtered light with gentle morning or evening sun; avoid harsh afternoon sunlight.
• Use a chunky, airy, fast-draining substrate such as orchid bark, perlite, and coco-based materials.
• Allow the medium to partially dry between waterings, as the succulent leaves store moisture.
• Maintain 60–70% humidity with good air circulation.
• Keep temperatures around 16–27°C (60–80°F) and protect from prolonged cold.
• Grow on a trellis or allow the stems to trail from a hanging basket.
• Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer during active growth.
• Do not remove old flower peduncles, as new flowers can develop from the same spurs.