PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial to full shade; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch delicate foliage
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mulch to retain soil moisture
Temperature
Cold-hardy perennial; tolerates frost and cool summer temperatures down to -30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Compound, sharply toothed dark green foliage with a delicate fern-like appearance
- Flower: Small, fragrant white flowers arranged in upright terminal racemes
- Fruit: Glossy white berries with distinctive black "pupil" markings on thick red stalks
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain even soil moisture; water deeply when top 2 cm of soil feels dry
Fertilization
Diluted organic liquid feed once monthly. Use nitrogen-balanced organic feed to support foliage growth without excessive flowering
Composted banana peel tea：Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid pest infestations and odorPruning
- Cut back dead foliage to ground level in late autumn to prevent overwintering disease
- Thin crowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition for nutrients
- Remove spent flower stalks after fruiting to redirect energy to root development
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may induce cardiac arrhythmias, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
Humans: All plant parts contain cardiogenic toxins; ingestion can cause severe cardiac and gastrointestinal distress
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Associated with woodland folklore; its distinctive berries are widely recognized as a toxic ornamental curiosity
Usage: Ornamental woodland garden plant; no edible or medicinal uses due to high toxicity
