The Fallopia, 'Fallopia japonica 'Variegata', is an very colorful clump perennial that is excellent for brightening up a shady corner. The new spring leaves are variegated pink and white. As the leaves mature thay turn a marbled white and green with pink hilights and red stems. To maintain form, this plant should be pruned back extensively every spring. The colorful heart-shaped leaves make this plant a favorite for cut foliage for flower arranging. The Fallopia will reach a mature height of about 4 feet and they will spread and make larger clumps each year, hence, the need for pruning if you want to confine this plant in a smaller area.