Cleyera

DESCRIPTION: This group consists of about eighteen evergreen trees and shrubs that are mostly native to Mexico and Central America; one species is from eastern Asia. C. japonica var. Tricolor is a tender, slow-growing, dense shrub that can eventually grow up to 10 feet high. This plant produces glossy, dark green leaves whose cream edges are tinged with dark rose when new.

POTTING: Grow these plants outdoors in mild climates. They can be planted in ordinary, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Peat, compost, or well-decayed manure can be mixed into the soil. The holes in which they are planted should be larger than the spread of the roots. They should be set with their upper roots close to the surface. Watered them well until they are established. Pruning consists of trimming any straggling branches and removing dead and crowded twigs.

PROPAGATION: Cuttings of young shoots, 4 inches long, can be inserted in sandy soil in a frame, in the summer.

VARIETIES: C. japonica & var. Tricolor.

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