Hypoestes phyllostachya (v)
polka dot 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
Synonyms
Eranthemum sanguinolentum misappliedHypoestes sanguinolenta misapplied
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 can be evergreen perennials, subshrubs or shrubs, with simple leaves, often attractively coloured or patterned, and 2-lipped tubular flowers in terminal or lateral racemes or solitary
- 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
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
Pinch out the growing tips to promote a bushy habit
Pests
Generally pest free
Diseases
Powdery mildews can occur
Get involved
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