New Zealand pepper tree, Pseudowintera colorata, is an attractive, medium-sized evergreen shrub, bearing cream-white leaves which are splashed with pink and red when young. These are complemented in spring by star-shaped, yellow flowers. Native to the south island of New Zealand, it’s ideal for a sunny, sheltered site and may need protection in winter.
Pseudowintera colorata ‘Red Leopard’ has yellow-green leaves with splotches of dark, wine pink. Grow in well-drained, neutral to acid soil in a sunny, sheltered site. Protect from cold winter winds and severe frost – it may suffer leaf damage or die back if too exposed. Mulch annually with composted bark or leaf mould. It requires little or no pruning, however cut back in spring if necessary.
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Pseudowintera ‘Red leopard’ and wildlife
Pseudowintera ‘Red leopard’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
Is Pseudowintera ‘Red leopard’ poisonous?
Pseudowintera ‘Red leopard’ has no toxic effects reported.