Plant Library
Polka Dot Plant Care Guide
Hypoestes phyllostachya
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
The polka dot plant has leaves speckled pink, red or white and is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. It is small, cheap and colorful, though it can get leggy.
Plant profile
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist; it wilts dramatically when dry
- Humidity
- Medium to high
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Size
- 6-12 in
- Growth
- Fast
Light
Bright indirect light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
Keep lightly moist; it wilts dramatically when dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: medium to high. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Pinch the tips regularly to keep it bushy, and remove flower spikes.
Common problems
- Leggy growth: Not enough light, or flowering; pinch back.
- Collapsing: Dried out; water and it usually recovers within hours.
- Fading spots: Too little light.
Pets
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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