Snowbush (Breynia disticha)

snowbush

Features and Characteristics

Breynia disticha, commonly called snow bush, is a tropical shrub that typically grows 2-4’ tall. It is grown for its attractive red zigzag stems and variegated foliage. Elliptic to ovate green leaves (to 1” long) are liberally mottled with white. Cultivars of this species feature leaves mottled with pink, red and purple. Small greenish apetalous flowers are insignificant. Synonymous with Breynia nivosa.

Genus name honors Jacob Breyne (1637-169- , merchant in Danzig and his son Johann Philipp Breyne (1680-176- , physician in Danzig.

Care and Maintenance

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 10-1 In St. Louis, plants are best grown in containers and overwintered in humid, cool but frost-free locations such as large sunrooms, porches or greenhouses. They also may be grown as bedding or container plants. Cuttings taken in late summer can be overwintered. These plants can be very difficult to overwinter in dry indoor conditions where they tend to drop all of their leaves. Grow in moderately rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best foliage color usually develops in full sun. Tolerates wide range of soils, but prefers organically rich ones with consistent moisture. Periodic light pruning during the growing season stimulates new foliage growth.

Snowbush (Breynia disticha) Requirements

Hardiness zone	10 - 11
Sun light	Full sun to part shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

Watch for caterpillars and spider mites.

Uses

Suitable for use in container plantings. Also may be sheared and grown as a bedding plant. Popular hedge in tropical climates.

Snowbush (Breynia disticha) Details

Common name	snowbush
Botanical name	Breynia disticha
Plant type	Broadleaf evergreen
Family	Phyllanthaceae
Hardiness zone	10 - 11
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Green
Flowering period	Flowers not showy
Height	2 - 4 ft.
Width	2 - 4 ft.