Hoya 'Icensis' (a.k.a. Patcharawalai 023 / AH Seeds 023) – Bold Foliage, Easy Care

Hoya 'Icensis' is a striking, easy-care cultivar prized for its dark-edged oval leaves and charming floral clusters. Also circulated as 'Patcharawalai 023' or 'AH Seeds 023', this plant has gained a loyal following thanks to its bold contrast foliage, compact vining habit, and minimal maintenance needs. While its exact parentage remains unknown, it is likely a cultivated hybrid of uncertain origin, developed or selected from Thai seed-grown stock.
 
● What Makes Hoya 'Icensis' Stand Out

Foliage: Thick, glossy, oval leaves with deep green centers and prominent dark margins.
Flowering: Produces reflexed white flowers with bright pink coronas in tidy umbels; blooms emit a mild licorice-like scent and last around 3 – 4 days.
Growth Habit: Semi-vining and compact — suitable for hanging baskets, shelves, or small trellises.
Rarity: Still uncommon in Europe, especially under the name 'Icensis'. A great pick for collectors.
 
● Care Tips for Hoya 'Icensis'

Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Can tolerate some morning or late-day sun without leaf burn.
Watering: Let the top 2 – 3 cm of soil dry before watering. Overwatering is the most common issue — when in doubt, wait.
Humidity: Comfortable at 40 – 60%. Extra humidity can help with flowering, but misting is not necessary.
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining mix: orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or aroid substrate work well.
Temperature: Best kept at 18 – 26 °C. Avoid exposure to cold air or drops below 10 °C.
Fertilizer: Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth. Reduce frequency if growth slows due to light or temperature.
Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Important: Never cut peduncles — Hoya flowers rebloom from the same stalks.
 
● Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Yellowing Leaves: Caused by excess moisture or poor aeration. Improve drainage and allow the mix to dry properly.
Leaf Drop: Often triggered by sudden drafts or changes in light. Keep conditions consistent.
Pests: Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Root Rot: A result of overwatering or compacted soil. Repot into fresh, airy substrate and adjust your watering routine.
 
● Extra Guidance for Happy Growth

Growth Rate: Moderate indoors. Vines may reach up to 1 meter over time with proper support and light.
Flowering Tips: Encourage blooms by allowing the plant to become slightly root-bound, maintaining steady conditions, and providing bright light.
Support: Use a hoop or trellis to guide growth — or let it trail from a hanging pot.
Repotting: Only when root-bound; Hoyas prefer to stay snug in their pots.
 
● Safety and Sap Info

Toxicity: Not known to be toxic to humans or pets, but ingestion may cause mild stomach upset. Keep out of reach of curious animals or children.
Latex Sap: Like most Hoyas, this plant exudes a sticky white sap when pruned. Wear gloves if sensitive to latex.
 
● Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hoya 'Icensis' difficult to care for? Not at all — it’s resilient, beginner-friendly, and forgiving of minor mistakes.
Will it bloom indoors? Yes, under bright light and consistent care. Flowering is more likely once the plant is mature and root-bound.
Are 'Patcharawalai 023' and 'AH Seeds 023' the same as 'Icensis'? Yes — these are synonymous labels for the same cultivar.
 
● Etymology

The name 'Icensis' has no verified published origin. It may reference an internal breeder code or collection name. The synonyms 'Patcharawalai 023' and 'AH Seeds 023' are linked to Thai seed-grown lines and seller designations.
 
● Why Add Hoya 'Icensis' to Your Collection?

If you love dramatic foliage with minimal fuss, Hoya 'Icensis' delivers. Its sculptural dark-edged leaves, compact vines, and easy-going care make it a top pick for shelves, plant walls, or trailing displays. Grab one now — this one still flies under the radar.