PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect to partial sun; tolerates full sun with consistent moisture, avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C; protect from prolonged extreme frost and heat above 32°C to prevent leaf browning
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, leathery, elliptical leaves; glossy dark green above, pale green beneath
- Flower: Inconspicuous yellow-green dioecious clusters (separate male/female plants)
- Stem: Slender, woody stems with tight branching for dense, uniform growth
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; increase frequency during hot, dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent soft, disease-prone new growth
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base of the plant and work into the top 1–2 cm of soil to avoid root disturbancePruning
- Trim after flowering to maintain desired shape; avoid heavy pruning in late autumn to prevent winter damage
- Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
- Thin dense inner growth annually to promote light penetration and healthy foliage
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy
Humans: Contains alkaloids; ingestion of large amounts causes mild gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes structure and formality in traditional Chinese and European formal garden design
Usage: Formal hedges, topiary, container gardening, and border plantings
