Hypoestes phyllostachya aka Polka Dot Plant
Taxonomy ID: 2657
Hypoestes phyllostachya, also known as the polka dot plant, is a flowering shrub belonging to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to South Africa, Madagascar, and Southeast Asia and is characterized by its beautifully spotted leaves. The spots on the green leaves can vary in color depending on the variety of the plant, with shades of white, red, and pink being common. The mature plant can grow up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) high and wide. The name Hypoestes comes from the Greek words hypo, meaning "under," and estia, meaning "a house," referring to the calyxes being covered by bracts. The Latin specific epithet phyllostachya means "with a leaf spike." When given proper care, the polka dot plant can produce small, pale pink flowers.
Common names
Polka Dot PlantMore information about Polka Dot Plant
How difficult is it to take care of Polka Dot Plant
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Polka Dot Plant, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
What is the growth pattern and size of Polka Dot Plant?
New growth will sprout from the top of the Polka Dot Plant as it grows vertically.
What is the region of origin of Polka Dot Plant
Polka Dot Plant’s native range is South Africa, Madagascar, and Southeast Asia.
What are the water needs for Polka Dot Plant
Polka Dot Plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Polka Dot Plant
Polka Dot Plant loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Polka Dot Plant
To ensure optimal growth, the Polka Dot Plant prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
What's the right humidity for Polka Dot Plant
The Polka Dot Plant does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.
How to fertilize Polka Dot Plant
Once the Polka Dot Plant has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Polka Dot Plant toxic to humans/pets?
Polka Dot Plant is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
What seasonal care does Polka Dot Plant need?
During the wintertime, it is common for Polka Dot Plant plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Is Polka Dot Plant flowering?
Yes, if you provide your Polka Dot Plant with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
