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Hypoestes phyllostachya

Common name: Polka dot plant · Freckle face

Hypoestes phyllostachya is a small, bushy perennial native to Madagascar, grown for its leaves splashed with pink, white, or red spots. The speckled pattern is most intense in bright, indirect light. It is often grown as a colorful annual or a compact houseplant and pairs well in terrariums and mixed planters.

Fun facts

  • The polka dots fade in low light, so bright shade keeps the pattern vivid.
  • Pink, red, and white spotted cultivars are all common.
  • Pinching the tips keeps it bushy and delays leggy flowering stems.
  • It is native to the forests of Madagascar.

Care summary

Sun Bright indirect light for best color
Water Keep evenly moist
Soil Rich, well-draining potting mix
Hardiness Zones 10–11
Mature height 30–60 cm (1–2 ft)
Pet safe Non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty Moderate
Propagation Stem cuttings root very easily in water or moist potting mix. Take a 7-10 cm tip cutting below a node, remove the lower leaves, and keep warm and humid; roots appear within a couple of weeks. It also grows readily from seed sown on the surface of moist compost in warmth.

Make your own Polka dot plant · Freckle face profile

Common problems

    • Move to brighter indirect light
    • Pinch stem tips to encourage bushiness
    • Improve airflow around the plant
    • Avoid wetting leaves when watering
    • Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings
    • Use a free-draining potting mix