PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of coastal winds and dry, rocky conditions
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply occasionally rather than frequent shallow watering
Temperature
Hardy to cold winter temperatures; withstands mild coastal heat without scorching
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval, leathery, dark green leaves with fuzzy undersides, 2–5 cm long
- Bark: Reddish-brown, peeling in thin strips to reveal smooth lighter inner bark
- Flower: Clusters of small, urn-shaped white to pale pink flowers
- Fruit: Round, reddish-brown drupes resembling tiny apples
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 1–2 weeks during extended dry spells
Fertilization
Light, diluted acidic fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that can damage shallow roots
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base of the shrub; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent irritationPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter before new growth begins
- Thin overcrowded inner growth to improve airflow and light penetration
- Shape lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, natural form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; fruits are edible when fully ripe
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; fruits provide food for birds and small wildlife
