Searching for “Hoya Publix” often leads to Hoya pubicalyx, a popular houseplant known for its attractive foliage and unique flowers. This vining plant, native to the Philippines, is relatively easy to care for, making it a favorite for new and experienced plant enthusiasts. Its adaptability to indoor environments contributes to its widespread appeal.
Understanding Hoya Pubicalyx
Hoya pubicalyx is an epiphytic perennial with a trailing and climbing growth habit, capable of significant lengths indoors with support. Its leaves are elongated and glossy, often featuring silver flecking or “splash” patterns. Leaves range from green to almost black, sometimes taking on a silvery-pink hue with sufficient sunlight.
Its star-shaped flowers appear in waxy clusters. Blooms display colors from dark red to pink and purple, often emitting a sweet fragrance, particularly in the evening. Several cultivars exist, each with unique visual characteristics. For instance, ‘Splash’ is recognized for its prominent silver flecking, while ‘Pink Silver’ often features green and silver leaves that can turn pink when exposed to sunlight. ‘Red Buttons’ is another cultivar known for its dark purple flowers.
Caring for Your Hoya Pubicalyx
Light
Hoya pubicalyx thrives in bright, indirect light, ideally receiving at least six hours of filtered sunlight daily. While it can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, avoid harsh midday sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light can lead to slower growth and may hinder blooming.
Watering
This plant prefers its soil to dry out between waterings. Water when the top two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves and is a common cause of root rot, while underwatering may cause the leaves to shrivel. Good drainage is essential to prevent the plant from sitting in soggy soil.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining, airy, and slightly acidic potting mix is ideal for Hoya pubicalyx. A suitable blend includes components like perlite, orchid bark, and peat moss or coco coir to mimic its natural epiphytic environment. This mix ensures good aeration for the roots and prevents waterlogging. Maintain a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
Temperature and Humidity
Hoya pubicalyx prefers warm environments, with an ideal temperature range between 60°F to 85°F (16°C to 29°C). Consistent temperatures are beneficial, as sudden fluctuations can stress the plant. Originating from tropical climates, it appreciates moderate to high humidity, ideally between 40-70%. To increase humidity in drier indoor environments, use a humidifier, mist regularly, or place it on a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Hoya pubicalyx benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, or one higher in phosphorus to encourage blooming, can be applied monthly, diluted to half strength. Fertilizing is not necessary during the fall and winter months when growth naturally slows. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn.
Repotting
Hoyas prefer to be somewhat root-bound and do not require frequent repotting. Repotting every two years in spring is sufficient to support its growth. When repotting, select a container that is only one size larger than the current pot and ensures good drainage. The best time for repotting is in the spring, allowing the plant to adjust during its active growth period.
Propagating Hoya Pubicalyx
Propagating Hoya pubicalyx is done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two to three nodes (where leaves emerge). Using a sharp, sterilized blade, take a 4-6 inch cutting, removing lower leaves to expose the nodes. Allow the cut end to callus for a few hours to prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or a well-draining soil mix. For water rooting, submerge nodes with leaves above the waterline, changing water every few days. For soil rooting, plant the cutting with at least one node buried in a moist, well-draining medium (e.g., potting soil and perlite mix). Place the cutting in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture, avoiding sogginess. Roots typically form within a few weeks to a few months.
Troubleshooting Common Hoya Problems
Lack of blooms often stems from insufficient light, as bright, indirect sunlight is crucial for flowering. Plant maturity and adequate nutrients also play a role; younger plants may need more time to establish, and a phosphorus-rich fertilizer during the growing season encourages blossoms. Hoyas also bloom more readily when slightly root-bound.
Yellowing or browning leaves signal issues with watering or light exposure. Overwatering leads to yellowing and leaf shedding, emphasizing the need for well-draining soil and allowing the topsoil to dry between waterings. Conversely, underwatering causes leaves to shrivel. Brown, crispy leaves indicate too much direct sunlight, leading to scorching.
Common pests include mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as white, fuzzy clusters, often found in leaf axils or on stems; treat by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap. Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions, causing dusty or webbed leaves; combat by increasing humidity or using horticultural neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays.