Proudly upholding the standard for Bornean Hoya is the incredible Hoya callistophylla. Much like its larger cousins, like clemonsorium and ‘tanggamus’, callistophylla produces relatively thin leaves with incredibly prominent venation; jet black rivers running down the canvas of lime green, one of the most stunning contrasts to be found in the entire houseplant trade. Care is much more streamlined for callistophylla than most of the other Bornean species; as callistophylla bounces back quickly, roots rampantly, and has a tendency to grow from multiple growth points at once; a plant that creates its own full carpet of vines. A mature, well-maintained specimen can grow foot after foot of beautifully patterned foliage adorning delicate vines, which provide the perfect backdrop for pearly white, tightly-clustered flowers which form on peduncles that re-bloom for year after year. Hoya callistophylla is not a full epiphyte; and can tolerate a soil that’s usually utilized with Hoya carnosa; simple houseplant mix with added aeration and fertilizers. Hoya callistophylla should be kept in lower light, as it’s an understory plant, and (this is rather unusual for Hoya) can become sun-burnt quickly, if left unattended in bright light. Besides this, though, this joy of a plant can provide years and years of amazing growing.
