Pellionia repens ‘Variegata’ is a beautifully textured and delicately patterned trailing plant prized for its intricate variegation and lush, cascading growth. A member of the Urticaceae family and native to Southeast Asia, this cultivar transforms the already impressive Pellionia repens into an even more ornamental and eye-catching foliage plant.

The leaves are small, soft, and slightly succulent, with a smooth surface and gentle satin sheen. Each leaf displays marbled patterns of soft green, silvery-grey, cream, and muted charcoal, often with a central mint stripe and darker, contrasting margins. The veining is fine but prominent, creating a beautifully detailed tapestry-like texture. Stems are slender, pinkish to reddish, and trail gracefully as the plant matures.

Compact, cascading, and highly decorative, Pellionia repens ‘Variegata’ is perfect for terrariums, plant cabinets, hanging planters, and mixed foliage displays. Its cool, painterly foliage adds refinement and softness to any indoor jungle.

Pellionia repens ‘Variegata’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light but adapts well to medium light. The variegation is clearest under brighter conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, especially midday sun, which can scorch the leaves or wash out the softer colours.

Watering

Keep the soil evenly moist at all times. Allow only the top 1–2 cm to dry slightly before watering again. Pellionia repens has fine, shallow roots and dislikes drying out completely. Use room-temperature filtered or rainwater to prevent mineral spotting.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers warm conditions of 18–26 °C. Protect from cold draughts and avoid temperatures below 15 °C.

• Humidity: High humidity (60–80%) is ideal and helps maintain lush growth and crisp variegation. Excellent for terrariums and greenhouse cabinets.

Soil and Potting

Use a light, moisture-retentive but well-draining mix — peat-free compost blended with fine bark, coco coir, and perlite is ideal. Avoid heavy soils. Repot annually or when the plant becomes dense or tangled.

Feeding

Feed every 3–4 weeks during spring and summer using a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pinch back long or leggy stems to encourage fuller, bushier growth. Remove any faded or older leaves to maintain a fresh appearance. Trailing stems can be easily propagated from cuttings.

Growth and Maturity

A fast grower that develops long, trailing stems up to 30–60 cm. Mature plants form dense layers of cascading foliage with intricate variegation and beautiful textural contrast.

Common Issues

• Crispy edges: Low humidity or underwatering.

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Faded variegation: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Watch for spider mites in dry environments.

Background and Benefits

Pellionia repens ‘Variegata’ is especially valued in terrarium communities for its humidity-loving nature and intricate leaf patterns. Its cascading growth habit makes it perfect for softening the edges of displays, filling vertical space, or adding movement and layered texture to plant arrangements.

Because of its quickly spreading habit and ease of propagation, it is also a favourite among collectors who enjoy creating lush, full displays or sharing cuttings with friends.

Its cool-toned palette makes it a beautiful complement to jewel orchids, ferns, mosses, and other tropical understory plants.

Quick Care Summary

Light: Bright–medium indirect
Water: Keep evenly moist; avoid drying out
Temperature: 18–26 °C
Humidity: High (60–80%) preferred
Soil: Light, moisture-retentive mix
Feed: Every 3–4 weeks in growing season
Growth: Trailing 30–60 cm; patterned variegated foliage
Toxicity: Not widely reported; treat as potentially unsafe for pets/children

Styling Tip

Showcase Pellionia repens ‘Variegata’ in a hanging planter, terrarium, or high-humidity cabinet where its trailing stems can cascade naturally. Pair with soft lighting that highlights its intricate variegation and use cool-toned or antique-style pots to complement its painterly foliage.