Also known as Flamingo-Plant · Freckle-Face · Measlesplant
Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya) is a vibrant foliage plant with striking pink, red, or white spots on green leaves, popular for adding color indoors.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight. Direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light will cause fading of the colorful patterns.
Keep soil consistently moist
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions and allow the top soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures range from 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Feed during growing season
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks from spring to summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler winter months.
Pinch back the tips of stems regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves promptly.
Pruning also helps maintain a more compact and attractive shape for the plant.
Polka Dot Plants are easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 7-10 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant the cuttings in moist potting mix or water and keep them in a warm, bright location.
Repot your Polka Dot Plant every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting in spring is ideal, just as new growth begins.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
Where Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Hypoestes |
| Species | Hypoestes phyllostachya |
Similar in genus Hypoestes
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
