Snowrose
Serissa japonica Variegata
Variegata
About this plant
Serissa japonica 'Variegata', commonly known as Snowrose, is a small evergreen shrub prized for its attractive variegated leaves with creamy white edges and delicate star-shaped white flowers. It is often grown as a bonsai or ornamental plant indoors and outdoors in mild climates. The plant is appreciated for its year-round foliage and charming blooms, making it a popular choice for decorative gardening.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Serissa
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Gentianales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- China, Japan, Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, originally native to Southeast Asia including China and Japan.
Care
- Light preference
- Bright indirect
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix
Watering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely or become soggy. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn). Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows.
Serissa japonica 'Variegata' is a small, slow-growing shrub that prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. It needs regular watering but dislikes waterlogged soil. It benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape and prevent leggy growth.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring-summer
Variegated foliage with creamy white edges, small star-shaped white flowers, compact rounded form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Serissa japonica 'Variegata' may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to its sap. It is not known for causing pollen allergies. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf drop due to sudden changes in light or temperature, overwatering leading to root rot, and occasional pest issues like aphids or spider mites.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for indoor decoration, bonsai cultivation, and garden accents due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
Notes
Prune regularly after flowering to maintain compact shape and remove dead or leggy branches. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using well-draining soil. Protect from drafts and sudden temperature changes.