Hoya 'Icensis' (aka Patcharawalai, aka AH 023) - Information and Plant Care:
 
Hoya 'Icensis' is a captivating and sought-after Hoya variety known for its eye-catching foliage and unique characteristics. This plant features bright green, oval leaves adorned with dark margins that gracefully outline each leaf, creating a striking contrast. The subtle venation running through the leaves adds another layer of visual interest, making this hybrid a truly special addition to any plant collection. Despite its uncertain parentage, Hoya 'Icensis' has quickly gained popularity among Hoya enthusiasts for its distinctive appearance and relatively easy care requirements.
 
 
Features of Hoya 'Icensis':
Leaf Shape and Color: Hoya 'Icensis' is characterized by its oval-shaped, glossy green leaves. The dark margins along the edges provide a striking contrast, while the intricate venation adds a delicate touch to its overall appearance.
Growth Habit: This Hoya variety has a semi-vining growth habit, making it suitable for both hanging baskets and trellises. It can reach moderate lengths with proper care, offering a lush, cascading effect when allowed to trail.
Flowering: Like many Hoyas, 'Icensis' can produce beautiful star-shaped flowers. While its blooms are not as prominent as some other Hoyas, they still add charm to its aesthetic appeal.
Resilience: This hybrid is generally robust and adaptable, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced plant lovers.
 
Caring for Hoya 'Icensis'
Caring for Hoya 'Icensis' is straightforward, provided you follow a few key guidelines. Here’s a practical care guide to ensure your plant thrives:
 
Light:
Prefers bright, indirect light.
Can tolerate some direct sunlight but avoid prolonged exposure to prevent leaf burn.
Watering:
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings.
Water sparingly during cooler months, ensuring the soil doesn't remain soggy.
Humidity:
Thrives in moderate to high humidity levels.
Avoid misting directly; instead, consider placing near a humidifier if necessary.
Soil:
Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably one designed for epiphytic plants.
A blend of orchid bark, perlite, and a small amount of potting soil works well.
Temperature:
Optimal temperature range is between 18-26°C.
Protect from temperatures below 10°C.
Feeding:
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Reduce feeding during the dormant winter period.
Pruning:
Minimal pruning needed; trim back any leggy growth to encourage bushiness.
Support:
Provide a trellis or other support to guide its growth, especially if you prefer a more structured appearance.
 
Common Issues and Solutions
Even with its resilience, Hoya 'Icensis' can encounter some problems. Here are common issues and how to address them:
 
Yellowing Leaves:
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Solution: Check soil moisture and adjust watering habits. Ensure the potting mix is well-draining.
Leaf Drop:
Cause: Sudden changes in temperature or humidity.
Solution: Maintain consistent environmental conditions.
Pests:
Spider Mites: Look for fine webbing and tiny moving dots on the leaves.
Solution: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and use insecticidal soap if needed.
Mealybugs: Appears as white, cotton-like patches on leaves and stems.
Solution: Dab affected areas with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and isolate the plant if infestation is severe.
Fungus Gnats: Often caused by overly moist soil.
Solution: Let soil dry out more between waterings and use sticky traps to catch adults.
Root Rot:
Cause: Prolonged overwatering or compacted soil.
Solution: Repot with fresh, well-draining soil and remove any affected roots.
 
 
Additional Tips for Success
Placement: Choose a location with ample bright, indirect light, such as near an east or west-facing window.
Watering Routine: It's better to underwater than overwater this Hoya. When in doubt, wait a few more days before watering again.
Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, using fresh, well-draining soil.
 
Researching where your species, cultivar, or hybrid originates and understanding how it or its 'parents' grow in their natural habitat will help you provide the best care for your plant. By mimicking these conditions, you ensure your plant doesn’t just survive, but thrives.
 
 
Etymology
The name 'Icensis' refers to the locality or place of origin associated with the plant. While its exact etymology is unclear, it is often used in horticulture to denote a variety distinct from others within the same genus. The alternative names, 'Patcharawalai' and 'AH 023', are likely attributed to either the breeder or the original collector, further distinguishing this hybrid from other Hoyas.