Breynia disticha Roseo Picta

Family

Euphorbiaceae

Origin

Hawaii

Description

'Roseo Picta' is an evergreen shrub growing to 3 feet or more with pink and red stems in zigzagged formation. The small, greenish, petal-less flowers emerge from the leaf axils and are inconspicuous below the colorful, flower petal-like leaves. The leaves are hairless, elliptic to egg-shaped, smooth-edged, up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, and variegated with green, pink, pinkish red, and white. The leaves near the stem tips are the most brightly colored, while those near the center of the plant are mostly green.

Environment

Grow in fertile soil and partial or light dappled shade, especially in the hot summer months, and consistently moist soil. Do not allow the soil to dry out, as leaf drop will occur. Water sparingly in winter.

Pinch out stem tips when young to promote branching growth. When placed indoors, grow in bright filtered light with ample water during the growing season.

Fertilizer should be applied at least once a month except during winter. The plant will also respond well to foliar feeding, with a water-soluble fertilizer

Landscape Use

Snow bush will do well in a container garden, or as a bonsai plant or a colorful hedge plant