Polka dot begonia vs Polka dot plant
Begonia maculata vs Hypoestes phyllostachya
Same common nickname, totally different plants and care.
Which should you pick?
Pet households: Polka dot begonia is toxic to pets; Polka dot plant is safe for cats and dogs.
5 of 10 attributes differ (highlighted below).
Side by side
| Polka dot begonia | Polka dot plant | |
|---|---|---|
| Pet safety | Toxic to pets | Safe for cats and dogs |
| Light | Medium / part shade – Bright indirect | Medium / part shade – Bright indirect |
| Water | Let the top inch dry | Keep evenly moist |
| Humidity | High | High |
| Temperature | 16°C – 24°C | 18°C – 27°C |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Soil | Peat-based | Standard potting mix |
| Fertilizing | Every 2 weeks, growing season | Every 2 weeks, growing season |
| Mature height (indoor) | 0.5–1.2 m | 20–50 cm |
| Growth rate | Fast | Fast |