Hoya verticillata ‘Pink Splash’ – Bold Marbling, Compact Growth, Easy Care


Hoya verticillata ‘Pink Splash’ is a highly sought-after clone known for its bold pink foliar marbling and compact growth habit. The thick, semi-glossy green leaves are splashed with irregular patches of pink, cream, or silver — a result of photoreactive pigmentation that intensifies in bright light. This form is often mislabelled as Hoya parasitica, a historical synonym now resolved under the accepted name Hoya verticillata (Vahl) G.Don, published in Gen. Hist. 4: 128 (1837). The name ‘Pink Splash’ refers to an unregistered, trade-circulated form originally selected for its vibrant foliage.
 
● Key Traits of Hoya verticillata ‘Pink Splash’


Foliage: Thick, ovate to oblong leaves (6 – 10 cm) with leathery texture and semi-glossy finish. Coloration includes irregular pink and silver marbling in strong light.
Photoreactive Trait: Marbling fades in low light and can return with improved exposure.
Growth Habit: Short internodes create a compact, bushy vine suitable for trellising or trailing. Ideal for space-limited displays.
Blooming: Produces umbels of 10 – 20 pale pink, star-shaped flowers in late spring or summer. Each bloom lasts 2 – 5 days. Scent is faint or absent indoors and varies by clone.
 
● Taxonomy and Background


Accepted name: Hoya verticillata (Vahl) G.Don
Basionym: Sperlingia verticillata Vahl
Synonym: Hoya parasitica (Roxb.) Wall. ex Traill, Trans. Hort. Soc. 7: 23 (1830)
Growth type: Epiphytic vine with climbing or trailing tendency
Native range: Tropical forests across Southeast Asia
 
● Care Guide for Hoya ‘Pink Splash’


Light: Bright, indirect light supports healthy growth and vibrant marbling. Morning sun is tolerated, but avoid harsh midday exposure.
Watering: Water when the top 2 – 3 cm of soil feels dry. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid waterlogged substrate.
Humidity: Thrives in 60 – 70% humidity. Group with other plants or use a humidifier in dry rooms.
Temperature: Prefers 18 – 26 °C. Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature shifts.
Soil Mix: Use a chunky, well-draining mix: orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and minimal peat.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) every 4 – 6 weeks. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Support: Grows well on a moss pole, hoop trellis, or trailing from a shelf.
Repotting: Only when root-bound. Slightly tight roots can promote blooming.
 
● How to Get It to Flower


Trigger: Needs maturity, consistent bright light, and slight root crowding to bloom reliably.
Season: Flowers typically appear in late spring or summer indoors.
Peduncle Tip: Never remove peduncles. This species reuses the same stalks for repeated blooming.
 
● Common Problems and Solutions


Fading Marbling: Result of insufficient light. Move plant to a brighter area.
Yellowing Leaves: Typically caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Reduce watering and check substrate.
Root Rot: Avoid compact soil or plastic pots without drainage. Use airy mix and breathable containers.
Pests: Susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs in dry air. Wipe leaves, boost humidity, and treat as needed with neem or insecticidal soap.
Leaf Curling: Often linked to underwatering or heat stress. Adjust care accordingly.
 
● Propagation Tips


Cuttings: Take stem cuttings with at least one node and one leaf.
Rooting: Root in perlite, sphagnum moss, or water. Keep warm, bright, and humid until established.
 
● Is Hoya ‘Pink Splash’ Pet-Safe?


Like all Hoyas, this plant produces latex sap which may cause skin irritation or mild reactions if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
 
● Etymology


The genus Hoya honors 18th-century British botanist Thomas Hoy. The species name verticillata means “whorled,” describing the leaf or flower arrangement. The name ‘Pink Splash’ is a descriptive trade label used for this marbled form.
 
● Order Hoya verticillata ‘Pink Splash’ Today


Bring vibrant pink marbling and tropical elegance into your home. Order Hoya verticillata ‘Pink Splash’ now and grow a one-of-a-kind foliage gem.