A picture really helps with identification. If you don't have a digital camera, do you have a scanner, or access to one?

The plant sounds really pretty - whatever it is.

Had a thought (scary!!). Your plant wouldn't be a type of begonia, would it. Waxy, juicy, stems and leaves? Does it have pink or red flowers?

Have a look at this site and see if there is any similarity.

Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.begonias.org/greenhouse/byType.asp?CAT=cane

Could it be Breynia? Have a look at this link.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:2116383}}

Tony, that is beautiful!! Not for me though - I suppose it's frost tender and I'm battling against the drought and severe water restrictions to keep alive what I've got.

It was the spots that Rachel mentioned that made me think of Begonias.

Rachel, does your plant have flowers?

Thanks Guys!Tony,it is a Breynia!Now I may be able to find some hints on propagating.It is growing in a very narrow space between the house and a concrete pathway so I don't have room to dig or anything.Wombat,I live in the south west of WA,we get some savage frosts here but my plant is doing well up against the house.It does have flowers but they are of the strictly functional variety,barely noticiable.It is a beautiful plant,changing colour throughout the year.

Thanks, Rachel. I'll try to track one down. I've got some wall on the east and south side which is out of the wind, as well as being frost protected.