Hoya densifolia is quite peculiar in its growth; being that it is a shrub. While most Hoyas evolved to fill the niche of a sprawling vine, or an opportunistic epiphyte, Hoya densifolia conformed to a very different niche. Native to Singapore, and some other Asian countries, this plant grows sparsely along the edges of forests, plains, or even mountains. Cupped, thin, and wide leaves make photosynthesis quite efficient, allowing for a fierce growth rate that pushes numerous points of growth. ‘Shrubs’ can reach about a meter tall in the wild, though they should be kept trimmed lower in cultivation. If kept around the height of 15 to 20 inches, and pruned well, a sparse pot of densifolia can quickly become a lush topiary, one that produces frequent, pleasantly tropical bundles of flowers, a touch of very unique style that is otherwise seldom seen in a houseplant collection. Where most collected varieties are selected for color, size or specific traits, the general, unadulterated beauty of Hoya densifolia, a simple shrub, yet one that clearly deserves a spot amongst the plants of the well-researched cultivator. Soil should be less aerated than that of most other Hoya; with regular houseplant mix and a bit of bark chips being more than enough to pleasantly house a large specimen. Care should be taken to keep individuals of this species away from harsh lights; as the thin, dainty leaves can burn easily.
