Master Gardener Q&A: Losing variegation

Question: I planted some variegated boxwoods along our front walkway and noticed that over time they have become more and more green in places. What is going on, and how do I stop that?

Answer: Your variegated boxwoods are reverting to the normal green color of the species. Many different plant species produce variegated forms, which typically have leaves with patterns that are the result of changes in chlorophyll content of the leaves, which allow other leaf pigments such as anthocyanins, carotenoids or xanthophylls to display red, yellow or pink coloration in parts of the leaves.

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White variegation is very common and the result of a lack of pigmentation in that part of the leaf. These plants often originate as a single branch or section of branch on an otherwise green plant and are propagated vegetatively. Depending on the plant species and individual form, they show varying stability and may tend to revert, that is, lose their variegation and revert steadily to the normal green form. The only practical thing to do is to cut out any reversions as soon as they are seen.

The Master Gardeners’ Question of the Week is courtesy of Oregon State University Extension Service’s Master Gardeners. The Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who offer homeowners help with gardening problems. Call 503-373-3770 in Marion County or 503-623-8395 in Polk County to talk with a Master Gardener.