Free Hoya Bella Plants

This Hoya is one of the best plants for a hanging pot. The flowers are attractive when viewed from above or from the side, but they are most beautiful when viewed from below, as the rose-purple centres can be seen. Apart from being a good trailing plant, it can also climb weakly, with support from a small frame or trellis. It is a delicate subject and particular care should be taken to avoid over¬watering, temperature fluctuations or physical disturbance, any of which can cause the developing flowers to be shed. A clay pot is perhaps the best container as it provides more stability and allows the roots to be aerated. To keep stress to a minimum, the plant should be repotted only when it becomes absolutely necessary.

Plant type : Flowering plant with trailing, semi¬climbing habit
Season of interest : Spring and summer, occasionally other times
Size : 20-30cm (8 —12in) tall, with 45-60cm (18—24in) trails
Flower : Pendulous, five-petalled, white with a rose-purple centre, fragrant, in clusters
Leaf : Pointed, spear-like, 2,5cm (1 in), dark green, leathery
Temperature : 15-2fC (59 —70°F)
Aspect/Light : Reasonably well-lit situation
Humidity : Moderate to high
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to get on the dry side before re-watering; keep drier in autumn and winter; water with care at all times
Feeding : Once every three to four weeks with flowering plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Plant 7.5-10cm (3-4in) tip or stem cuttings in seed and cutting compost at 18-20°C (65-68'F) from mid spring to late summer
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Mealy bug, root loss if over-watered
Availability : Occasionally available in spring and summer
Uses indoors : Good hanging basket plant for lounge, dining room, kitchen or bathroom