Polka dot plant
Hypoestes phyllostachya · Family Acanthaceae
Also known as: hypoestes, freckle face, flamingo plant
- Light
- Partial shade to bright indirect
- Watering
- Every 3 days
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- Yes
Care
Where to put it
A bright windowsill, terrarium or mixed indoor planter.
Light
Partial shade to bright indirect light keeps the spots bright.
Watering
Keep the compost moist. Pinch out the tips to keep it bushy.
About the plant
The polka dot plant has leaves speckled with pink, red or white, as if splashed with paint. It is compact and colourful, great for brightening tables and arrangements. It looks best with frequent pruning.
Origin
Native to Madagascar, where it grows in tropical forest understoreys.
What it likes
- Bright indirect light
- Compost kept slightly moist
- Pinching out the tips
What it dislikes
- Direct sun
- Letting the compost dry out
- Low light, which dulls the colours
Did you know?
Removing the flowers helps the plant keep its leaves full and colourful for longer.
