Hoya Sunrise

Hoya 'Sunrise' is a breathtaking hybrid cultivar — a cross between Hoya lacunosa and Hoya obscura — celebrated for its extraordinary foliage coloration. New growth emerges in vivid shades of red, orange, and coral before maturing to a rich, waxy green with warm bronze undertones, particularly when grown in bright light. The name says it all: each new leaf unfurls like a sunrise. A vigorous grower and reliable bloomer, it produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers with a sweet, cinnamon-like fragrance — one of the most distinctive scents in the Hoya genus. A must-have for any serious collection.

Care Guide

Light

Bright indirect light is ideal, with a few hours of gentle direct morning sun strongly encouraged. Higher light levels are the single most important factor in achieving the vivid red and orange coloration that makes 'Sunrise' so distinctive. In lower light, new growth will emerge green rather than red and the plant will bloom less frequently. Avoid harsh direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage.

Water

Allow the top half of the soil to dry out between waterings. 'Sunrise' inherits a moderate moisture tolerance from its Hoya lacunosa parent but should never sit in standing water. Water thoroughly, then allow to partially dry before watering again. Reduce watering in fall and winter when growth slows.

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity (50–70%). Higher humidity supports faster growth and more vibrant foliage coloration. Adapts to average household conditions but benefits from a pebble tray or nearby humidifier, especially in drier climates or during winter months.

Temperature

Thrives between 60–85°F (15–29°C). Protect from temperatures below 55°F (13°C) and cold drafts. Not frost-hardy. Warmer temperatures year-round encourage the most consistent growth and blooming.

Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining, airy epiphyte mix — a blend of orchid bark, perlite, and a small amount of potting mix works well. Always use a pot with drainage holes. 'Sunrise' is a moderately fast grower and may need repotting every 1–2 years. Slightly root-bound conditions encourage blooming.

Fertilizer

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (quarter to half strength) every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring–summer). A phosphorus-rich formula encourages blooming. Do not fertilize in fall or winter.

Blooming

Produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers with a warm, sweet cinnamon-like fragrance — one of the most beloved scents among Hoya collectors. Blooms appear on peduncles that should never be removed; new flower clusters emerge from the same spurs each season. Bright light and being slightly root-bound are the most reliable bloom triggers.

Propagation

Propagate via stem cuttings with at least one node. Root readily in water, moist sphagnum moss, or a well-draining mix under warm, bright conditions. A vigorous grower that roots and establishes relatively quickly compared to many Hoyas.

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets.