Polka Dot Plant
Hypoestes phyllostachya
The Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya) is a lively tropical perennial that brings an instant splash of color to any indoor garden. Renowned for its small, oval leaves heavily spotted with pink, white, or red, it creates a striking visual texture that looks as if it were hand-painted. Native to Madagascar, it is a relatively fast grower that prefers warm, humid environments. It is often chosen for its expressive nature—visibly drooping when thirsty—and its ability to thrive in compact spaces like terrariums or small decorative pots.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
Hypoestes phyllostachya is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, making it an excellent choice for pet-friendly households.
Care Guide
Polka Dot Plant Care Guide
1. Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light to maintain the vibrant colors of the foliage. Too much direct sun can bleach or scorch the leaves, while too little light will cause the plant to lose its colorful spots and become leggy.
2. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. This plant is known to be a 'drama queen'—it will wilt dramatically when thirsty but usually perks up quickly after being watered.
3. Humidity: High humidity is essential for success. Use a pebble tray, a humidifier, or mist the leaves frequently to prevent the edges from turning brown and crispy.
4. Temperature: Maintain a warm environment between 65°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
5. Pruning: This plant grows quickly and can become spindly. Regularly pinch back the top two leaves on each stem to encourage bushier, denser growth.
6. Seasonal Care: During winter, reduce watering as the plant's growth slows. If the plant produces small lavender flowers, it often signals the end of its peak foliage cycle; many growers pinch these off to redirect energy to the leaves.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer (10-10-10)
Soil
Well-draining, peat-based potting soil
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
12-18 inches tall
Growth Rate
Fast
Propagation
Stem cuttings in water or soil; seed propagation