RHINCOSPERUM ANG.TRICOLOR

Rhynchospermum asiaticum ‘Tricolor’ is an ornamental cultivar of Asian origin, appreciated for its variegated and compact foliage. Evergreen and with a ground cover or trailing habit, it is clearly distinguished from the more common varieties of Rhynchospermum by the decorative appearance of the leaves rather than by the flowering.
The leaves are small, leathery and shiny, but what makes them unique is their surprising variegation: each leaf has an irregular combination of green, cream and pink. The new shoots are often colored bright pink, which tends to fade to cream-white and finally to green, creating a “tricolor” effect that continually changes during the seasons. This chromatic contrast makes the plant extremely decorative even in the absence of flowers.
Unlike the better known Rhynchospermum jasminoides, ‘Tricolor’ produces much more modest blooms, and in some cases it may not flower at all if grown in a pot or in the shade. When present, the flowering is discreet: small, creamy white star-shaped flowers, slightly scented, appear between late spring and summer.
The habit of ‘Tricolor’ is spreading, creeping or drooping, with slow and contained growth. It is ideal as a ground cover for borders or flowerbeds, but it also lends itself very well to pot cultivation, where it can be left to droop along the edges of the containers. In combination with plants with dark foliage or with simple blooms, it adds brightness and chromatic variety to the composition.
Rustic and resistant, this variety prefers exposures of partial shade or filtered light, where the colors of the leaves are brighter and less subject to sunburn. In full direct sunlight, especially during the hottest hours, it may present marginal discoloration or burns. It tolerates moderate cold well, but in areas subject to intense frosts it is preferable to offer it a sheltered position or grow it in a container to protect in winter.
Rhynchospermum asiaticum ‘Tricolor’ is a refined choice for those who want to add a lasting and decorative element of color to the garden or terrace, without requiring high maintenance. Its value lies mainly in the appearance of its leaves, which guarantee aesthetic interest all year round.