Origin
The Hoya carnosa 'Compacta', otherwise known as the 'Rope Plant', traces its origin back to East Asia. In the wild, this plant primarily grows in forests, often as an epiphyte on trees. It can mainly be found in the areas of the Malaysian Peninsula, India, Australia, and East Asia including the Philippines and Indonesia.
Characteristics
The Hoya carnosa 'Compacta' is distinguished by its unique leaves, which grow curled and wavy, resembling knots, hence its nickname the 'Rope Plant'. The plant has a hanging growth style and under ideal conditions, it can bloom, producing star-shaped flowers that hang together in clusters. The flowers are waxy and fragrant, and vary in colour from white to pink.
Care
In terms of care, the Hoya carnosa 'Compacta' requires light, indirect sunlight and a constant temperature that does not fall below 10°C. It is advisable to water the plant regularly, but only once the top layer of the soil is dry to prevent root rot. The plant thrives in well-draining soil and benefits from a high humidity level, although it can also tolerate relatively dry conditions. It is recommended to fertilise the plant once a month during the growing season for optimal growth conditions.