Baby’s Tears

Hypoestes phyllostachya (hy-poh-ES-teez fy-lo-STAK-ee-ah)

Family: Acanthaceae Unknown Herbaceous (1-3 ft)

Once thought of as simply a houseplant, the 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 polka dot plant is an herbaceous perennial and native to Madagascar. The plant has ovate green leaves that are dotted with splotches of rose, pink, or white. The cotyledon (embryonic leaf) is green, however, the first set of true leaves will show the color of the foliage. Its flowers are small, tubular shaped, and lilac, and appear on spikes about 6 inches long. It is not grown for its flowers and cutting off the blooms will allow more of the plant's energy to be used by the foliage. Polka-dot plants 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 crinkle and curl. Too little lighting can result in the leaves fading as well as a plant that becomes 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 it 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. In warm, temperate locations, this plant can freely reseed. The vibrant colored leaves will make this plant stand out in the home or garden. The polka dot plant can be used in containers, terrariums, or annual bedding plants in most areas of the United States. The plants are winter hardy in USDA Zones 10-11. Quick ID Hints: dense, spreading, ground cover ovate, green leaves dotted with splotches of pink, red, or white small, tubular-shaped, lilac flowers on spikes green stems Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant insects or disease problems. Root rot and powdery mildew can occur. Aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies can also affect this plant. If needed, treat the plants with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 54 attributes.