Alternanthera ‘Snow Ball’ 4”

Alternanthera ‘Snow Ball’ is a compact ornamental foliage plant prized for its bright white and green variegated leaves. Native to tropical regions of Central and South America, Alternanthera varieties are grown for their colorful foliage rather than their flowers. ‘Snow Ball’ stands out with its crisp, creamy-white variegation that creates strong contrast in containers, mixed planters, and indoor collections. The brighter the light, the more vibrant and defined the variegation tends to be.

For the best color and compact growth, place ‘Snow Ball’ in an east-, south-, or west-facing window where it receives bright indirect light. Aim for approximately 1,500–4,000 foot-candles. Under grow lights, use a 5000K–6500K full-spectrum fixture positioned 8–12 inches above the canopy. Insufficient light can cause stems to stretch and the white variegation to fade, while excessive direct afternoon sun may scorch the lighter portions of the leaves.

Keep the soil lightly moist but not saturated, allowing the top portion of the soil to dry slightly between waterings. This plant prefers warm temperatures and benefits from moderate humidity. Crispy brown edges usually indicate the plant became too dry, while yellowing leaves and soft stems often suggest excess moisture around the roots. If growth becomes sparse or leggy, increase light exposure. Regular pinching encourages a dense, rounded shape and helps maintain the full appearance that makes this variety so attractive.