Hoya cinnamomifolia, described in 1848, features large dark green leaves with prominent veins and spectacular clusters of 20-30 lime green flowers with burgundy centers, being a vigorous species from Java, Indonesia.
Flowering state: No flowers
Country of origin: Indonesia
Pot diameter: (no pot)
Nodes: 3-4
If you're looking for a spectacular plant with large sculptural leaves and impressive bicolor flowers, Hoya cinnamomifolia is the perfect choice. Described in 1848 and native to Java, Indonesia, this species is valued for its vigorous growth, clusters of 20-30 fragrant flowers, and excellent air-purifying properties. Ideal for experienced collectors who want a dramatic visual impact and a plant that can cover large supports.
Denumire: Hoya
Diametru: (fără ghiveci)
Cerințe lumină: Partial umbra
Tip plantă: Decorative
Utilizare: Interior
Plant comes from Indonesia as a rooted cutting with 3-4 nodes, without soild or pot
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Most of the Hoya plants we sell are not in bloom when shipped. However, they can bloom under the right light, temperature, and humidity conditions. The flowers are lime green with burgundy centers, 2 cm diameter, in clusters of 20-30.
Check the "Flowering stage" for each product to see whether the plant is:
- Without flowers
- With formed peduncles
- With flowers
Hoya cinnamomifolia flowers typically last between 7 and 10 days after opening, depending on environmental conditions (stable temperature and no drafts extend bloom duration).
After the flowers fade, do not cut the peduncles, as they can produce new inflorescences in subsequent seasons.
Blooming period
- Under ideal light and temperature conditions, Hoya cinnamomifolia typically blooms in late spring and summer (May–August).
- In indoor environments with adequate light and humidity, flowering can be encouraged year-round.
- The plant may take 1-2 years after rooting to reach flowering maturity.
Flower description
- The flowers are star-shaped, rotate with revolute lobes (bent backward), approximately 2 cm diameter.
- Corolla is lime green to pale yellow-green.
- Corona is bright burgundy to maroon red, protruding with a flat surface.
- Creates a dramatic chromatic contrast between corolla and corona.
- Forms spectacular umbels of 20-30 individual flowers.
- Produces sweet, sugary nectar.
Fragrance of the flowers
- The flowers have a sweet, pleasant fragrance that intensifies at night, typical of many night-pollinated Hoya species.
Hoya cinnamomifolia is special for several reasons:
1. **Historic species** – one of the earliest Hoyas described scientifically (1848)
2. **Named after cinnamon** – leaves resemble those of Cinnamomum verum (true cinnamon)
3. **Large sculptural leaves** – among the largest in the Hoya genus (11-15 cm)
4. **Spectacular floral display** – clusters of 20-30 bicolor flowers
5. **Dramatic chromatic contrast** – lime green corolla with burgundy corona
6. **Sweet nocturnal fragrance** – intensifies at night
7. **Vigorous growth** – can reach up to 3 meters, perfect for large supports
8. **Excellent air purifier** – removes pollutants from indoor air
9. **Two botanical varieties** – var. cinnamomifolia and var. purpureofusca
The name comes from Latin: "cinnamomi" (cinnamon) + "folia" (leaves), meaning "having leaves like cinnamon." This refers to the resemblance of the plant's foliage to the leaves of Cinnamomum verum, the true cinnamon tree. The leaves share similar characteristics: prominent parallel veins, slightly recurved margins, and a similar overall shape and texture.
Ideally near an east- or southeast-facing window, with bright indirect light and gentle morning sun. This species:
- Prefers to be kept in the same location year-round (doesn't like to be moved frequently)
- Needs bright light for optimal growth and prolific flowering
- Is perfect for large supports, trellises, or hanging baskets where it can climb vigorously
- Benefits from high humidity (above 60%) and good air circulation
- Appreciates stable temperatures without cold drafts
Hoya cinnamomifolia has specific care requirements:
- Moderate difficulty – suitable for collectors with some Hoya experience
- The main challenge is avoiding overwatering (root rot is the primary risk)
- Prefers very well-draining and airy substrate (epiphytic mix)
- Needs bright light and high humidity for optimal growth
- Can be somewhat slow to establish, but once mature grows vigorously
- May take 1-2 years to reach flowering maturity
- Some growers report it can be "fussy" and may drop leaves if conditions aren't ideal
- Once established and happy, produces spectacular floral displays
The flowers of Hoya cinnamomifolia are special because:
- Produced in large umbels of 20-30 flowers (one of the highest flower counts in the genus)
- Dramatic bicolor effect: lime green corolla contrasting with burgundy corona
- Relatively large size (2 cm diameter)
- Sweet fragrance that intensifies at night
- Star-shaped with revolute corolla lobes creating an elegant appearance
- Produces sweet, sugary nectar attractive to pollinators
- The chromatic contrast is unique and striking
- Creates a spectacular visual impact when in full bloom
Hoya cinnamomifolia is sometimes called the "Purple Wax Plant" due to:
- The bright burgundy/maroon/purple corona of its flowers
- The waxy texture typical of all Hoya flowers
- The glossy, slightly waxy appearance of its leaves
- This common name helps distinguish it from other Hoyas in casual conversation
Hoya cinnamomifolia is distinctive because:
- Has some of the largest leaves in the genus (11-15 cm)
- Produces one of the highest flower counts per umbel (20-30 flowers)
- Features unique cinnamon-like leaf venation
- Has vigorous, fast climbing growth compared to many compact Hoyas
- Offers dramatic bicolor flowers rather than uniform coloring
- Native exclusively to Java, Indonesia
- One of the earliest scientifically described species (1848)
Hoya cinnamomifolia, like many Hoya species, is considered an excellent air purifier:
- Removes volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from indoor air
- Helps filter pollutants common in homes (formaldehyde, benzene, etc.)
- Performs photosynthesis and releases oxygen
- The large leaf surface area enhances its air-purifying capacity
- Makes it a functional ornamental plant (beauty + air quality improvement)
- Particularly beneficial for indoor environments with limited air circulation