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Usually seen as a shrub of 4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m), this species will
continue to spread by basal sprouting and self-layering of its weak,
soft-wooded stems and, as it thickens up, the mass of stems will
support one another, allowing it to reach 10 ft (3 m).
The thick, soft, glossy leaves are up to 10 in (25 cm) long and very
variably toothed.
Sprays of small, reddish flowers may be followed by drooping
clusters of 1/2 in (12 mm) long, red berries.
Cultivars include Variegata (female), which has leaves densely
spotted with yellow, and Crotonifolia (male), with leaves heavily
splashed with yellow.
Cultivation: They are tough and resilient, tolerant of frost,
neglect, pollution and heavy shading but responding to better
treatment and stronger light with more luxuriant growth.
The long-lasting but tender leaves should be protected from wind
damage.
Grow in full sun or part- or full shade, with filtered light for
variegated species, in any soil. Propagate from seed or cuttings
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