Hypoestes phyllostachya Hippo Red
Best vibrant foliage for versatile sun or shade container gardening.
The striking Hypoestes phyllostachya Hippo® Red, commonly known as the Polka Dot Plant, features dark green leaves vividly splashed with bold red markings, offering excellent color contrast. This versatile Proven Winners® variety is heat tolerant and thrives equally well in full sun or shade, making it perfect for garden beds or patio containers. It is an annual that grows to a mature height of up to 22 inches. Care is straightforward; pinching the stems encourages a bushier, more compact shape. Plants ship ready to plant in 1-pint containers, ensuring a strong start in your landscape.
$10.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
864
/ 3268
#864 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-60%
Below average
Type
Annual
/ Annual
Who it's for
- Plant lovers wanting versatile indoor and outdoor greenery
- Gardeners seeking high-contrast focal points for containers
- Container designers needing vigorous, reliable filler plants
Who should skip it
- Busy gardeners preferring low-maintenance, hands-off plants
- Beginners struggling with precise light placement
- Forgetful waterers prone to missing daily hydration needs
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Bold red variegation provides an immediate, high-contrast focal point.
Environmental Adaptability
Thrives reliably in both full sun and deep shade conditions.
Maintenance Ease
Simple stem pinching easily manages the plant's overall shape.
Container Versatility
Compact growth habit makes it ideal for mixed patio arrangements.
Heat Tolerance
Maintains structural integrity and color vibrancy during peak summer heat.
Establishment Speed
Pint-sized containers ensure a healthy, vigorous start for new plantings.
Key Specs
Type
Annual
Exposure
Sun to Shade
Mature Height
16-22 inches
Spacing
6-10 inches
Ships as
1 PINT (28.86 CU IN.)
Variety
PP 30,613
Features
- Highly versatile, suitable for both garden beds and patio pots
- Pinching tips encourages branching and a compact form
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality and vibrant design of the Hippo Red. Reviewers frequently highlight the plant's remarkable vigor and robust health upon arrival, noting its quick establishment and reliable performance throughout the season. The intense, saturated red spotting provides a striking aesthetic contrast, making it a highly valued accent plant. Consumers feel this variety delivers superior visual impact and durability compared to standard polka dot plants, justifying the purchase price.
Know before you buy
Yes, this variety is heat tolerant and versatile enough to thrive in both full sun and shade conditions.
To encourage a denser, more compact habit, simply pinch back the tips of the stems throughout the growing season.
Absolutely. Its compact size and striking foliage make it an excellent choice for patio pots as well as traditional garden beds.
For optimal growth and air circulation, space your plants 6 to 10 inches apart.
No, the Hippo Red is classified as an annual, meaning it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
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$11