Shutterstock Appearance
A compact plant with small leaves that are irregularly spotted and splashed with colour – choose from various shades of red, pink or white. They form low spreading clumps, up to 30cm high.
Preferences
Hypoestes enjoy a warm place with bright, indirect light and humid air. Mist the leaves or stand the pot in a tray of damp pebbles, or keep in a steamy bathroom. They like temperatures of 18–27°C (65–80°F). Let the top of the compost dry out before watering.
Dislikes
Keep them out of direct summer sun, which can scorch the leaves and fade their bright colours. Deep shade can reduce the leaf colouring too, turning the foliage more green instead. Position away from heat sources, such as radiators, where the air is dry – they prefer humidity.
Did you know?
Although hypoestes may produce small pink flowers in summer, it’s best to remove these to keep growth neat and compact. If your plant starts to get tall and straggly, pinch back the shoots to encourage bushier growth.
RHS Growing Guide
FREE
Read our comprehensive free RHS Growing Guide:
