Hoya callistophylla

Hoya callistophylla originates from near Nabawan, in northern Borneo, in the state of Sabah (Malaysia). The forest where it was originally found is famous for its steep limestone cliffs, especially Batu Punggol, and its incredibly diverse plant life. Pitcher plants ( Nepenthes ), many orchids, and also many milkweeds (Asclepiadoideae) such as Hoya and Dischidia thrive there. Perhaps the most beautiful member of this group is Hoya callistophylla with its strikingly patterned leaves. Its leaves grow up to 20 cm long and about 6 to 10 cm wide, and are slightly thickened and surprisingly tough. The veins are always dark green, almost black.

Their flowers are also pretty. They appear in hemispherical clusters of 20 to 40 individual blossoms and are pink with a white center. Unfortunately, their beauty is short-lived, as they are only open for one day.