Genus guide
Hypoestes — 12 species
Part of the Nerve plants & the acanthus family family (Acanthaceae)
Hypoestes is a genus of tropical foliage plants — including the Polka dot plant, Splash, Red, and Confetti varieties — grown for their eye-catching spotted or splashed leaves in shades of pink, red, white, and lavender on a green base. Indoors they perform best in bright, indirect light; insufficient light causes the vivid markings to fade. Water when the top half of the soil dries out, and maintain high humidity to prevent leaf drop. All Hypoestes species are non-toxic to cats and dogs, confirmed by ASPCA.
All Hypoestes species we cover
- Confetti Polka Dot Plant
- Hypoestes phyllostachya 'Carmina'
- Hypoestes phyllostachya 'Confetti Pink'
- Hypoestes phyllostachya 'Splash Select Pink'
- Hypoestes phyllostachya 'Splash Select White'
- Hypoestes phyllostachya 'Wit'
- Polka dot plant
- Polka Dot Plant
- Polka Dot Plant 'Splash Select Red'
- Red Polka Dot Plant
- Ribbon Bush
- Splash Polka Dot Plant
Hypoestes — frequently asked questions
Are Hypoestes plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Hypoestes are pet-safe. Of the 12 Hypoestes species we cover, 12 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 0 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Hypoestes plants need?
Most Hypoestes do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Hypoestes easy to care for?
Hypoestes are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Hypoestes varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 12 Hypoestes species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Hypoestes, the rest follow closely.
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