Variegated Wax Ivy – Senecio macroglossus variegatum – Easy to Grow – 2.5″ Pot

Description

A relative of the Bead Plant, Variegated Wax Ivy has been on display in our retail greenhouses for years. It has shiny, waxy leaves that resemble those of English Ivy but without the headache of spider mites or other pests. The variegated, triangular leaves and plump stems of this climbing vine make for a lush hanging basket or trellised climber in a pot. In bright sun, the white stems and leaf edges blush a beautiful pink and purple that creates a lovely contrast with the green. In the summertime, yellow, daisy-like flowers appear. Like other senecios, it prefers to dry between waterings but it has been a carefree plant for us for many years. Variegated Wax Ivy received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Merit for its spectacular foliar variegation. Full or partial sun, a southern, eastern or western exposure. The higher light, the better. Maintain indoor temperatures above 40 degrees. As they are succulents, humidity is not an issue.Bring soil to a state of visual dryness between watering. When watering, thoroughly saturate soil until a little water runs out of the bottom of the pot. Growing in a clay pot will help maintain a healthy root system. More dryness will create a bushy plant. Minimal fertilizer, once every two months. Use ¼ tsp of fertilizer per gallon of water. Use a balanced fertilizer like a 15-15-15 or 7-9-5. The plant is a trailing vine so to maintain it as a bonsai; it needs to be periodically trimmed. Without regular pruning, the plant will vine. Not susceptible to insects or disease.