Hoya obovata ‘Splash’ is a highly decorative and collectable cultivar of Hoya obovata, a species native to India, Indonesia, and Thailand. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is prized for both its bold foliage and fragrant clusters of waxy flowers.

The plant produces large, round to oval, leathery leaves in a rich emerald green. The ‘Splash’ form is especially eye-catching, as the leaves are generously flecked and speckled with silvery-grey variegation, giving them a shimmering, painted look. Some leaves may be heavily dusted with silver, while others display lighter freckles, ensuring no two are ever the same.

When mature, Hoya obovata ‘Splash’ produces umbels of star-shaped, waxy flowers. The blooms are typically soft pink with a darker centre, sweetly fragrant, and last for several days. Its trailing or climbing growth habit makes it suitable for hanging baskets, trellises, or cascading from shelves, where its patterned foliage can be best admired.

Hoya obovata ‘Splash’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Can tolerate a few hours of soft morning or late-afternoon sun, but avoid harsh midday light, which may scorch the foliage. Insufficient light reduces silver splash markings and flowering.

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Like most Hoyas, it dislikes soggy soil but also should not be left completely dry for extended periods. Reduce watering in winter.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–28°C. Keep away from draughts and protect from cold below 15°C.

• Humidity: Adapts well to average household humidity but thrives in moderate to high levels (50–70%). Mist lightly in dry homes or place near a humidifier.

Soil and Potting

Use a chunky, airy, and free-draining epiphytic mix – a blend of orchid bark, perlite, coco husk, and a little peat-free compost. Hoyas like to be slightly root-bound, so repot only every 2–3 years.

Feeding

Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser, switching to a high-potassium formula when encouraging flowers. No feeding is required in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune lightly to manage length and encourage branching. Do not remove the flower spurs (peduncles), as Hoyas bloom repeatedly from the same sites.

Growth and Maturity

A moderate grower, developing long trailing or climbing vines. With the right conditions, mature plants produce regular clusters of fragrant flowers.

Common Issues

• No flowers: Often due to insufficient light or removing flower spurs.

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poorly draining soil.

• Leaf shrivelling: Prolonged underwatering.

• Pests: Can be prone to mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids.

Background and Benefits

Hoya obovata is a classic species among Hoya enthusiasts, known for its large circular leaves and prolific blooms. The ‘Splash’ variety adds a silvery twist to the foliage, making it particularly popular for display in modern interiors. Its forgiving nature makes it suitable for both beginners and serious collectors.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates gentle sun

• Water: Allow topsoil to dry slightly; avoid waterlogging

• Temperature: 18–28°C; protect below 15°C

• Humidity: Moderate to high (50–70%)

• Soil: Chunky, free-draining epiphytic mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer; high-potassium for flowers

• Growth: Trailing or climbing vine with round green leaves speckled in silver; clusters of pink fragrant blooms