Hoya amicabilis ‘Splash’ – Rare, Compact Hoya with Mint-Speckled Foliage


Hoya amicabilis ‘Splash’ is a distinctive cultivar of a shrubby, upright-growing species native to Central Java. Discovered in pine forests at elevations around 600–800 m, this compact Hoya adapts easily to indoor life and stands out for its matte, deep green leaves scattered with minty variegation. It’s best known for flowering while still young — producing delicate, yellow, bell-shaped blooms in small umbels. Unlike sprawling vines, this one keeps its shape, making it a top pick for plant shelves and small-space collections.


Highlights of Hoya amicabilis ‘Splash’

Growth habit: Compact and shrubby, growing upright to around 30–40 cm without excessive vining.
Leaf features: Waxy ovate leaves (5–8 cm long, 3–4 cm wide) with irregular mint-to-silver splash patterns.
Early flowering: Produces umbels of 5–10 yellow flowers, each about 5–6 mm wide, even on juvenile plants.
Fragrance: Mild, sweet scent that lasts for up to 10 days during bloom.
Growth rate: Moderate and steady — ideal for maintaining tidy displays.



Origin and Botanical Background
Hoya amicabilis was described in 2019 by S. Rahayu and M. Rodda, based on material collected in the Purworejo region of Central Java. Its name, “amicabilis,” comes from Latin for “friendly,” reflecting both its cooperative growth habit and the online plant community connections through which it was shared. The ‘Splash’ form is an unregistered horticultural selection with prominent leaf variegation that does not occur in wild populations.
Taxonomic authority: Hoya amicabilis S.Rahayu and Rodda, published in Nordic J. Bot. 37(12): E02563 (2019).


How to Care for Hoya amicabilis ‘Splash’ Indoors

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light keeps growth compact and highlights the splash pattern.
Direct sun may scorch leaves — use sheer curtains for window placement.
Supplement with full-spectrum grow lights if natural light is limited.


Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; avoid soggy conditions.
Ensure drainage holes and a breathable mix to prevent root rot.
In cooler or darker months, reduce watering without letting the plant desiccate.


Humidity and Temperature

Prefers 60% humidity or higher, but tolerates typical indoor conditions well.
Ideal temperature range: 18–26 °C (64–79 °F). Keep above 15 °C (59 °F).


Soil and Repotting

Use a chunky, airy mix: orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir are ideal.
Repot only when rootbound — typically every 2–3 years.


Fertilizing

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
Flush occasionally to prevent salt buildup, especially in smaller pots.



Common Problems and Solutions

Root rot

Cause: Watering too frequently or using compact soil.
Fix: Repot into well-draining substrate and water only when needed.


Yellowing or fading leaves

Cause: Low light or overwatering.
Fix: Move to a brighter spot and let soil dry out more between waterings.


Leaf browning

Cause: Excess sun, dry air, or fertilizer buildup.
Fix: Provide filtered light, increase humidity, and flush substrate periodically.


Pests

Common culprits: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale.
Response: Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or biological pest control as needed. Monitor regularly.



Additional Growing Tips

Propagation: Easy from stem cuttings with 1–2 nodes; root in water, moss, or perlite within 2–4 weeks.
Hydroponic suitability: Performs well in semi-hydro setups if nutrients are balanced and water levels monitored.
Support: May benefit from a small stake or hoop to guide upright growth as it matures.
Toxicity: Not officially listed as toxic, but like other Hoyas, it produces white latex sap that may cause mild skin or digestive irritation. Keep out of reach of pets and children as a precaution.



FAQs – Hoya amicabilis ‘Splash’
Will this plant trail? Not typically. It has a bushy, self-supporting growth habit with only short internodes. A support is optional but can help maintain shape.
How soon does it flower? With the right care, blooms can appear within the first year — even on smaller plants kept in good light and humidity.
Can it grow in low humidity? Yes, but foliage may lose some luster. A humidity level of 50–60% is ideal for healthiest growth.


Add Hoya amicabilis ‘Splash’ to Your Collection
This compact, early-flowering Hoya offers a perfect blend of rarity, manageable size, and unique leaf variegation. Whether you're a collector or beginner, Hoya amicabilis ‘Splash’ brings friendly growth and high ornamental value to any bright indoor space.