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.