By James Campbell >> IJ correspondent

Have you ever noticed how many poinsettia varieties there are, some with pale edges or white, yellow or pink streaks? Those colorful patches are what we call variegation.

There are a variety of plants that can be found variegated, and, for many Marin gardeners, they add a touch of unique beauty to the garden. Variegation happens when parts of a plant’s leaves or stems lack the usual green pigment known as chlorophyll. Without chlorophyll, these areas lose their green hue and reveal a variety of colors, creating that attractive look so many of us admire.

Why do some plants develop variegation? Well, there are a few reasons. Some plants inherit their variegated patterns from their parents — it’s in their genetic makeup. Other times, variegation can appear due to environmental stress or even certain viruses. And just like anything in nature, variegation isn’t always permanent. If a plant finds itself under pressure or needing to conserve energy, it may revert to green, leaving its bright, flashy patterns behind.

Gardeners value variegated plants not just for their appearance but also because they’re often a little rare or unique. When you spot a variegated plant at the nursery, you’ve found something a bit special, almost like a treasure hidden among the usual greenery. These plants can stand out in your garden, drawing attention and adding a different texture and color scheme to your landscape.

When it comes to caring for variegated plants, a few things are worth considering. Since variegated leaves have less chlorophyll, the green pigment that drives photosynthesis, they typically need a bit more sunlight than fully green plants. More light helps them get enough energy, as the green parts of the leaves work to capture light and produce the nutrients the plant needs to grow. But be careful — not too much direct sun, or they can get a bit sunburned, especially in our warm Marin summers.

Watering needs some extra attention, too. Variegated plants can be a tad more sensitive to changes in water, so try to keep the soil evenly moist. Mulch is a handy helper here, keeping the roots cool and holding onto moisture during those hot days. A balanced fertilizer can also give variegated plants a little extra push, especially in the growing season.

Pruning might require a bit of finesse as well. Now and then, you’ll notice a branch or two that’s turned completely green, losing that distinctive variegated pattern. It’s often a good idea to prune these areas since the green parts can photosynthesize more efficiently, which may lead the plant to favor those branches over the variegated ones. That green can start to take over if you let it, so a quick snip here and there can help keep your plant looking balanced and colorful.

While we’re talking about green, it’s a good moment to touch on photosynthesis, which is the process plants use to turn sunlight, water and carbon dioxide into energy. This energy helps them grow, flower and develop. The green pigment chlorophyll acts like little solar panels, capturing light to fuel the whole process. In variegated plants, though, those white or yellow areas don’t produce much energy, so they rely on the green areas to do most of the work. With fewer “solar panels,” so to speak, they can be a bit more delicate and need that extra bit of attention to keep growing strong.

If you’re looking to add variegated plants to your garden, many varieties work especially well in Marin’s mild climate. The variegated Japanese maple, for example, brings a beautiful array of leaf colors that complement many landscapes. Pelargonium ‘Mrs. Pollack’ has long been a favorite in Marin gardens. It’s now possible to find a variegated lavender, although it produces far fewer flowers than the other varieties. There’s something delightful about a little variety in the garden, and variegated plants certainly bring that. They offer something a bit different — a spark of color, a touch of the unexpected. With a bit of care and a nice spot in the garden, they can thrive here in Marin and keep your space interesting all year round. For more tips on growing and caring for your plants, check out marinmg.ucanr.edu.

Sponsored by UC Cooperative Extension, the University of California Marin Master Gardeners provides science- and research-based information for Marin home gardeners. Email questions to helpdesk@marinmg.org. Attach photos for inquiries about plant pests or diseases. Please call 415-473-4910 to see when a master gardener will be at the office or drop off samples 24/7 in the sample box outside the office. To attend a gardening workshop or subscribe to Leaflet, a free quarterly e-newsletter, go to marinmg.ucanr.edu.