Hoya Publicalyx ‘Splash’

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Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’: The Silver-Streaked Wonder

Introduction:

The Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’ is a beautiful, fast-growing Hoya with dark green leaves splashed with silvery streaks, giving it a unique and eye-catching appearance. Its long, vining growth makes it perfect for hanging baskets, trellises, or letting it trail gracefully from a shelf. In addition to its striking foliage, this plant also produces fragrant, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink to burgundy, adding to its appeal.

History:

Native to the Philippines, Hoya Pubicalyx is an epiphytic plant that grows in tropical rainforests. The ‘Splash’ variety is distinguished by its silver-splashed leaves, which give it a distinct texture and appearance compared to other varieties of Hoya Pubicalyx. Like other Hoyas, this plant is known for its ability to thrive in various indoor environments with minimal care, making it a popular choice for collectors.

Care Outline:

• Light: Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’ thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels, although this may slow its growth and reduce flowering. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Aim for 10,000 to 20,000 lux to maintain the silver splash and encourage blooming.
• Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil are dry. This Hoya is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure the pot has proper drainage.
• Humidity: This plant enjoys moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%. It can tolerate average household humidity but will thrive in a more humid environment.
• Temperature: Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’ prefers warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to cold and should be kept away from drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
• Soil: Use a well-draining, light potting mix. A blend of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for ensuring good drainage and preventing root rot.
• Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during fall and winter when growth slows.
• Propagation: Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’ can be easily propagated through stem cuttings, either rooted in water or directly in soil.

Light and Lux Rating:

For optimal growth and to maintain its vibrant splash markings, Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’ requires bright, indirect light with a lux rating of 10,000 to 20,000 lux.

• Natural Light: Place the plant near an east or north-facing window where it can receive plenty of bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sun, as this can cause the leaves to scorch.
• Artificial Light: If growing under artificial lights, use full-spectrum grow lights and ensure the plant receives 12–16 hours of light per day to mimic natural sunlight.

Propagation:

1. Stem Cuttings:

• Best Time: Spring or early summer during active growth.
• Steps:
  1. Take a cutting with at least one node and a few leaves.
  2. Allow the cutting to dry for a few hours to prevent rot.
  3. Root the cutting in water or directly in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the node is submerged.
  4. Place the cutting in a bright, warm spot with high humidity until roots develop.

2. Layering:

• Steps:
  1. Choose a healthy vine still attached to the mother plant.
  2. Wrap a node with moist sphagnum moss and secure it with plastic wrap.
  3. Once roots develop, cut the stem from the mother plant and pot it in soil.

Soil for Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’:

This plant thrives in a well-draining, airy mix to prevent water retention and root rot. A recommended mix includes:

• Orchid bark for aeration and support.
• Perlite or pumice for drainage.
• Peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention.

This mix ensures the roots stay healthy while providing the plant with enough moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Fertilizing:

• During the growing season, feed the plant every 4–6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which can harm the roots.
• Stop feeding in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.

Repotting:

• When to Repot: Hoya Pubicalyx ‘Splash’ does not require frequent repotting and prefers to be slightly root-bound. Repot every 2–3 years, or when the plant outgrows its pot.
• Best Time: Early spring is the ideal time to repot, just before the growing season begins.
• Steps:
  1. Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots.
  2. Repot in a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil.
  3. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant back in bright, indirect light.