Hypoestes phyllostachya

Once thought of as simply a houseplant, Polka Dot plant has progressed to an annual in the garden.  Used in a container grouping, a dish garden, window boxes or placed directly as a border plant is sure to brighten your landscape.  Several hybrids are available in a variety of colors, including reds, greens, whites and pinks.  

The cotyledon (embryonic leaf) is green, however, the first set of true leaves will show the color of the foliage.

Small, insignificant racemes of tubular shaped, pink or blue flowers are produced.  Not grown for its flowers, cutting off the blooms will allow more of the plants' energy to be used by the foliage. 

In warm, temperate locations, this plant can freely reseed.  

Polka-dot plant will tolerate some direct sunlight, however, achieving the best color can be accomplished by locating this plant in an area that receives bright, filtered lighting.   Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to become crinkly and curled.  Too little lighting can result in the leaves fading as well as a plant that become leggy as they reach for brighter lighting.  Pinching back leggy plants can maintain a more compact plant.  

Propagation is easily accomplished through stem cuttings.  Place the cutting in water and place in a bright location.  Soon, roots will begin to form.  Bring garden grown annuals in during the winter months.  They will be ready to go in the garden again in the spring.  

Family name previously Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues.  Root rot and powdery mildew can occur.  Aphids, mealybugs and whiteflies can also affect this plant.