Snow bush (Breynia disticha) is widely cultivated in tropical locales. It can be found from southeastern Asia through Malaysia, to Australia, New Caledonia and New Hebrides. This tropical darling is often used as a colorful hedge, but it suckers profusely and must be maintained to keep it in a tidy habit. Southern gardeners can try growing this plant outdoors but northern gardeners will need to grow in containers and move indoors.

It is a foliage plant grown for its red, white and green foliage. The plant’s zig-zagging stems are pink to red, adding to the colorful display. There are even cultivars with mottled leaves in tones of pink, red and purple.

Care:

This is a heavy feeder and drinker. Fertilize monthly and use organic mulch around the root zone to preserve moisture. Prune annually in winter to keep the bush at the size you require. Un-pruned plants will naturally form an attractive vase shape. Indoor plants should be placed in bright, unfiltered light and kept moist. As soon as temperatures are warm, gradually re-introduce indoor plants to the outdoors. Snow bush has few disease issues, but it can have problems with caterpillars, spider mites, aphids and whitefly. Use horticultural soap to combat these pests and hand pick caterpillars.