Hoya Imbricata ‘leafcutting’

The species name ‘Hoya imbricata’ translates to ‘overlapping Hoya’. This name refers to the peculiar growth habit of shingling leaves. This growth form enables a symbiosis with ants. The plant provides shelter under its shingled leaves, and in return the ants fertilise the plant with their waste (frass). The ants also protect the plant from herbivores by attacking anything disturbing the plant. You do not have to worry about an ant invasion when keeping this plant in your house or terrarium. The plant does not require the ants to thrive and they will not attract ants unless you grow it outside. This species is found throughout south-east Asia and grows epiphytically on lowland rainforest trees. Although the spectacular growth habit and the beautifully camouflaged leaves are enough to make this a very desirable plant, it can also flower with the proper care. The flowers grow in umbells on a perennial stalk called a peduncle. The flowers are beautifully scented and will last a couple of days.