polka dot plant
Also known as: freckle face; measles plant; pink dot; flamingo plant
H. phyllostachya is a bushy evergreen sub-shrub to 30cm tall, with thin, ovate dark green leaves heavily spotted with light or deep pink. Small, 2-lipped tubular magenta flowers are borne in terminal spikes
Scientific classification
- Species
- polka dot plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
- Genus
- Hypoestes
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Information to be completed
- Toxicity
- Houseplants · Conservatory Greenhouse
- Plant type
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- Evergreen
- Foliage
- Bushy
- Habit
- Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
- Season of interest
- Full sun · Partial shade
- Sunlight
- 18 – 27 °C
- Ideal temperature
polka dot plant pictures
Distribution of polka dot plant
Distribution map
Southern Africa, Madagascar, Southeastern Asia
Information to be completed
Culture
Information to be completed
Toxicity
Information to be completed
Quick identification of polka dot plant
Information to be completed
polka dot plant care guide
- Evenly moist potting mix, mist leaves to raise surrounding air humidity
- Watering
- Full sun · Partial shade
- Sunlight
- 18 – 27 °C
- Ideal temperature
Watering
Evenly moist potting mix, mist leaves to raise surrounding air humidity
Fertilizing
FertilizingDiluted tropical foliage feed every three weeks spring through summer
Pruning
PruningPinch out the growing tips to promote a bushy habit
Propagation
PropagationPropagate by seed, softwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Growing
GrowingGrow indoors in loam-based potting compost in bright, filtered light, with moderate to high humidity. Water freely in growth and sparingly in winter. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2-3 weeks in summer
People also ask
Information to be completed
Common pests and diseases
Diseases
Powdery mildews can occur
Pests
Generally pest-free
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