Pseudowintera colorata

Pseudowintera colorata, also known as Drimys colorata, is a decorative exotic shrub that stands out with its compact, rounded habit and its remarkable, evergreen and highly colourful foliage, vibrant all year round.

This characterful shrub belongs to the Winteraceae family and originates from New Zealand. It grows slowly to reach a height of approximately 1.50 meters (5 feet) when fully grown, making it a key plant for small gardens and terraces, whether planted in the ground, in a container or in a pot.

Its leaves, green with purple margins, oval and ending in a point, capture all our attention, perhaps more so than its very discreet spring flowers. The foliage is adorned with bright red spots in an irregular pattern that become darker or lighter, depending on the exposure.

We have imagined a baroque scene to emphasize and enhance its silhouette and spectacular foliage. Combine this shrub with other plant varieties that display shimmering, rich and indulgent tones, such as Clematis Westerplatte, Knautia macedonica, parrot tulips, and creeping ajugas as ground cover, to create an elegant and vibrant planting scheme.

Place Pseudowintera colorata in a sheltered location, at the base of a wall or in front of a hedge, as this shrub is relatively frost-sensitive, preferably in a part shaded or sunny exposure, but avoid scorching sun. During the winter months, we recommend protecting it if it is planted in the ground or taking it indoors if it is grown in a pot. It prefers rich and moist soils. It is worth noting that Pseudowintera colorata is disease-resistant.

This shrub is a true living botanical monument, as it has existed for over 65 million years. The Maoris use its leaves, which have a peppery taste, in traditional medicine for its fungicidal and analgesic properties.