Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ is a popular houseplant known for its unique foliage. Native to the Philippines, this vining plant features deep green, waxy, lance-shaped leaves with striking silvery flecks. A cultivar of Hoya pubicalyx, it is admired for its distinctive leaf patterns and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers ranging from pink to deep maroon. Its relatively easy-care nature makes it a favored choice for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Understanding ‘Splash’ Variegation
The “splash” on Hoya pubicalyx leaves refers to the silvery, reflective flecks across the green surface. This characteristic is caused by tiny air pockets within the upper layers of the leaf’s epidermis. When light interacts with these air pockets, it creates a silvery or sometimes pinkish appearance, giving the plant its common name.
The intensity and amount of splash vary significantly, even on different leaves of the same plant. While splash is an inherent genetic trait, its manifestation is influenced by environmental conditions, particularly light exposure. More light can enhance the silver variegation, making the splash more prominent, though it does not create the splash itself.
Essential Care for Your ‘Splash’ Hoya
Caring for Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ involves providing conditions that mimic its tropical origin. Consistent attention to its environment helps this plant thrive.
Light Requirements
Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ flourishes in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet from a south or west-facing window, is ideal. While it can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, harsh midday sunlight can scorch its waxy leaves, leading to discoloration or burn spots. Conversely, insufficient light may result in leggy growth and a reduction in the intensity of the ‘splash’ variegation.
Watering Practices
As a semi-succulent, Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ stores water in its thick, waxy leaves, making it relatively drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot, so ensure proper drainage. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, typically when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry.
Soil Mix
Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ requires a well-draining, airy potting mix. A suitable blend includes components that provide good aeration and mimic its epiphytic nature. An effective mix uses equal parts orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat moss. This combination allows for adequate drainage while retaining some moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant thrives in warm environments, ideally between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). It is sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can cause stress and lead to leaf drop. Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ enjoys moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 75%. While it adapts to average household humidity, extra humidity through misting, a pebble tray, or a humidifier encourages more lush foliage.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly. Some growers recommend a fertilizer higher in phosphorus to encourage blooming. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months when growth naturally slows.
Propagating Your Hoya ‘Splash’
Propagating Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ is straightforward, most commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two to three nodes (points where leaves emerge). Using a clean, sharp knife or shears, cut a 4-6 inch section, ensuring a few leaves at the top and removing lower leaves to expose nodes.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or a moist rooting medium. If using water, place the cutting in a container with fresh water, ensuring nodes are submerged but no leaves are in the water.
For rooting in a medium, a mix of perlite and peat, or sphagnum moss, works well; insert the cut end 2-4 inches deep, ensuring at least one node is buried. Maintain consistent moisture in the rooting medium and place cuttings in bright, indirect light to encourage root development, which typically occurs within weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’ is generally resilient, but owners may encounter common issues. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering (especially if soil is soggy) or underwatering (if leaves shrivel before yellowing). Adjusting your watering schedule to allow soil to dry out between waterings can remedy this.
Leaf drop can also be a symptom of overwatering, inconsistent watering, or sudden temperature changes. Ensuring a stable environment and proper watering practices prevents this. Sparse or stunted new growth might suggest insufficient light or a need for fertilization during the growing season.
Pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and scale insects can infest Hoya pubicalyx ‘Splash’. Regularly inspecting the plant and treating infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or isopropyl alcohol-dipped cotton swabs controls these issues.