Hypoestes phyllostachya (v)
polka dot plant
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. An ideal plant for terrariums or bottle gardens
Synonyms
Eranthemum sanguinolentum misappliedHypoestes sanguinolenta misapplied
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Pink Variegated | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple | Green Pink Variegated | ||
| Autumn | Green Pink Variegated | |||
| Winter | Green Pink Variegated |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Hypoestes are tender evergreen perennials, subshrubs or shrubs, with simple leaves, often attractively coloured or patterned. Plants sometimes produce 2-lipped tubular flowers, but are more often grown for their foliage
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- S Africa, Madagascar, SE Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow 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. See Hypoestes for further advice. An ideal plant for terrariums and bottle gardens
Propagation
Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
No pruning required. Pinch out the growing tips to promote a bushy habit
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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