Hypoestes phyllostachya (Polka Dot plant)

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Plant description

Hypoestes phyllostachya, the Polka dot plant, is a herbaceous annual to perennial ornamental plant. It has dark green leaves spotted all over with pink, white or red spots. Grows best in warm areas. Will die back when frosty. A good border and groundcovering plant for shady areas, also grows well in containers, indoors and outdoors.

Hypoestes will grow in a sunny spot, part shade to full shade. The plant will get leggy in lower light conditions. Tip prune to encourage compactness. Likes regular watering.

Propagate from cuttings, which root readily. Also grow from seed. This plant self seeds readily, and can become a weed problem in warm areas.

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: pink
Flowering season: not specified

Plant size

Maximum height: 0.5 metres
Minimum height: 0.3 metres

Maximum width: 0.3 metres
Minimum width: 0.2 metres

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

This plant will tolerate full or partial sunlight.
Light frost tolerance.
Plant is not salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Not specified.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: temperate, subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: moist, well-drained.

Clay: moist, well-drained.

Sand: moist.

Soil pH: 5.5-7.0

Pests

Mealy bug

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: Any.

Types of fertiliser: Good general purpose fertiliser.

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