mature

A Japanese clone, once widely grown for the cut flower trade and now nearly extinct. The leaves unfurl green, then the with blotches appear. At maturity at least half the leaf is white. This variegation develops only on mature plants and more in the sun than in shade. The variegation, unlike others, is not caused by virus, but results from mutated cells that can't form green chlorophyl. The flowers are sweetly and delightfully fragrant. Grows best on loamy soils and forms vigorous specimens over years.