Chasing Spotted Plants: A Complex Legacy of Discovery
Dotty [ dot-ee ] adjective, Informal. crazy, not mentally sound; also: amiably eccentric. Many of us plant collectors would gladly accept the amiably eccentric label.
For centuries, plant hunters scoured the globe, driven by an insatiable appetite for the new, strange, and exotic. This quest, while revealing botanical wonders, came at a cost: indigenous knowledge appropriated, and local ecosystems disrupted. In this complicated tapestry of botanical discovery, spotted plants held a special allure, their dappled leaves and flowers captivating collectors and gardeners alike.
From Exotic Curiosities to Garden Treasures
In the wild, spotted and variegated plants are uncommon, often resulting from genetic mutations or environmental responses. Such characteristics are sometimes associated with problems in plants (mites! fungi! bacteria! Oh no!), making naturally healthy spotted varieties even more intriguing.
Imagine a Victorian botanical adventurer stumbling upon a gold-speckled leaf in a misty jungle—a dazzling prize for collectors back home! Plants like Aucuba japonica ‘Variegata’, with its constellation of yellow dots, became living trophies in European conservatories.
As “plant fever” gripped society, these spotted wonders transformed from curiosities into status symbols. George Orwell’s 1936 novel “Keep the Aspidistra Flying” illustrates how the aspidistra became de rigueur in middle-class sitting rooms. My Dad often recalled how growing up, it was very posh to have one along with a mini replica of the Taj Mahal.
Spotted Plants: Nature’s Polka Dots in Your Garden
Here at Plant Lust we pride ourselves on offering an exquisite selection of rare and covetable plants, the real stand-outs of the vast plant world. One group, and you’d be surprised how big a group it is, is spotted plants. They are just so FUN in the same way that a spotted bathing suit is fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a budding plant parent, read on for some of our favorite dotty plants that are perfect for adding a splash of wonderful strangeness to your collection.
5 Stunning Spotted Foliage Plants for Your Garden
Aspidistra sichuanensis ‘Yellow Hammer’
There are several spotted Aspidistra varieties and let me tell you, they are as cast-iron as the standard. I have a few which have lived through terrible drought (owner-induced) and epic ice storms. Aspidistra ‘Yellow Hammer’ is a playful and vibrant choice that thrives in shade or indirect sunlight. Once the “It” plant of Victorian parlors, it still makes a standout houseplant if you prefer to enjoy it indoors.
Podophyllum ‘Spotty Dotty’
Podophyllum Spotty Dotty is a rare garden gem which is surprisingly easy to grow. It features enormous mint green umbrella-like leaves dotted in burgundy that seem almost surreal. They call to mind mint chocolate chip ice cream. It’s a must-grow in my book if you have a shady spot that will stay somewhat moist.
Asarum splendens ‘Quicksilver
A tough groundcover for shady spots, Asarum splendens ‘Quicksilver’ has striking heart-shaped leaves with a grey polka-dotted pattern. It prefers well-drained soil and can add a dramatic flair to any garden.
Tricyrtis ‘Sinonome’
A tall toad lily, Tricyrtis ‘Sinonome’ has orchid-like tropical flowers but is hardy down to zone 5. Yippee! The flowers have a charming freckled appearance and are said to make lovely cut flowers that are much prized in Japan.
Saxifraga ‘Aureopunctata’
Another fantastic groundcover that will jazz up the garden with sunny yellow spots, Saxifraga ‘Aureopunctata’. As if the foliage wasn’t exciting enough it sends up tall panicles in Spring topped with light pink flowers that dazzle in sunlight.
Despite their exotic look most spotted foliage plants are easy to care for. Browse our extensive catalog from plantlust.com where we provide detailed growing instructions and information. Ready to add some spots to your life? Browse our collection of spotted leaves and spotted flowers today.