Polka Dot Plant

Hypoestes phyllostachyaAlso known as: Freckle Face, Flamingo Plant, Measles Plant

The Polka Dot Plant is a cheerful foliage plant covered in spots of pink, red, white, or lavender on deep green leaves. Native to Madagascar, it's often grown as an annual but can be maintained as a perennial houseplant with proper care. It grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and wide.

Easy Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
60-80°F (16-27°C)

Ideal Temp
72°F (22°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 3-5 days, keep soil evenly moist
Summer	Every 2-3 days
Fall	Every 4-5 days
Winter	Every 5-7 days, slightly drier

Wilts when thirsty but recovers after watering. Avoid soggy soil.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	2-3 times per week
Summer	Daily in dry conditions
Fall	2-3 times per week
Winter	2-3 times per week

Appreciates humidity but tolerates average home conditions.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing

Regular feeding keeps colors vibrant.

Pruning

Frequency: Frequently to maintain bushy shape

Best Season: Growing season

Pinch growing tips to prevent legginess. Remove flower spikes to extend plant life.

Repotting

Frequency: Annually

Best Season: Spring

Use well-draining potting mix. Fast grower - may need larger pot yearly.

Flowering

Season
Late summer/fall if not pinched

Color
Small lavender/purple flowers

Flowering signals end of life cycle. Pinch flower spikes to extend plant life.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings root easily in water
Seed propagation
Division of clumps

Common Problems

Leggy growth: Insufficient light or needs pinching
Faded spots: Too little light - needs bright indirect
Wilting: Underwatering - will recover quickly
Flowering: Remove flowers to prevent plant decline

Pro Tips

Bright light intensifies spot colors
Pinch regularly - gets leggy without pruning
Pet-safe for cats and dogs
Remove flowers to prolong plant life

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