Origin
The Tolmiea menziesii 'Variegata', also known as the Variegated Piggyback plant, originates from North America. It is a plant species from the saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae). This plant is named after the Scottish botanist William Fraser Tolmie. The natural habitat of this plant extends from Alaska to California, where it is typically found in moist, shady forest areas.
Characteristics
The Tolmiea menziesii 'Variegata' is a perennial plant with a green and white variegated leaf. One of the defining characteristics of this plant is its unique method of propagation; new plantlets grow directly from the mother plant before falling to the ground to grow on their own. The leaves are heart-shaped and the flowers are small, bell-shaped and a brownish-purple hue. The soft, hairy leaves feel pleasant to the touch.
Care
The Tolmiea menziesii 'Variegata' prefers a location in light shade but can also tolerate full shade. The temperature in the space where this plant is kept may vary between 10-28 degrees Celsius. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Blooming can be promoted by placing the plant in partial shade. However, it is important to let the plant drain well after watering, as although it is a water loving plant, it does not tolerate water saturation well.