Confetti White Polka Dot Plant

Confetti White Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya 'Confetti White') is a neat, low growing foliage plant about 10cm tall and 20cm wide, with small green leaves freckled with white spots. It stays small and tidy, which makes it a favourite for pots, terrariums and underplanting in warm gardens.

Why you'll love it

• Spotted foliage. Every small leaf is dotted with white freckles, which gives the plant its common name.
• Stays compact. This Confetti form is very tight and low, so it will not outgrow a bowl, a pot or a terrarium.
• Pet friendly. The polka dot plant is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• Easy to place. A shady spot with indirect light suits it, indoors or out.
• Colour in a container. Pop it into a coloured pot to echo or contrast with the white spots.

Where it works best

Pots and patios. A potted group on a shaded patio or in a well lit room gives a splash of pattern. Allow about 20cm for each plant.

Indoors and terrariums. It is an ideal potted plant for a well lit room and an excellent choice for a terrarium.

Underplanting and bedding. Plant 20cm apart beneath taller shade lovers in tropical gardens, where temperatures stay above 10 degrees Celsius. In cooler climates use it as annual bedding.

Growing Confetti White Polka Dot Plant in Australia

Position and climate. Choose a shady position with bright, indirect light. Outdoors it suits tropical gardens where temperatures stay above 10 degrees Celsius, and in cooler climates it works as annual bedding or a houseplant. It does not tolerate frost or cold, and in low light it can stretch.

Soil. It wants an open mix: well drained garden soil or a good potting mix. In a terrarium use a light, open mix.

Water and feed. Water regularly for the first three months, then only when the soil feels dry. Apply a slow release fertiliser once a year and a liquid feed every three months.

Pruning. Pinch out the tips and any flower spikes now and then to keep the plant dense and the foliage in the spotlight.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Confetti White Polka Dot Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. A tube is all you need for a pot, a bowl or a terrarium, and a handful will fill an underplanting. Expect a small plant on arrival that settles in fast in warm, shady conditions.

The tube comes from our grower and is not always in stock. When the grower has none, it shows as sold out, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Indoor plants
• Pet friendly indoor plants
• Low light indoor plants
• Indoor plant tips for beginners

Common questions

How big does it get?

Only about 10cm tall and 20cm wide, and it stays small and tidy.

Can I grow it outdoors?

In tropical gardens, yes, as an underplanting in shade where temperatures stay above 10 degrees Celsius. In cooler climates use it as annual bedding or grow it indoors.

Is it safe for cats and dogs?

The polka dot plant is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, though any plant can upset a pet that chews it.