PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Tolerates full sun to partial shade; provide afternoon shade in hot, arid climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; protect young plants from harsh winter winds; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 32°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oval, leathery dark green leaves arranged oppositely on slender stems
- Flower: Inconspicuous yellow-green dioecious flowers clustered in leaf axils
- Stem: Young green stems mature to light brown, with dense, compact branching habit
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; reduce frequency during prolonged rainy periods
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at the start of growth. Refrain from fertilizing in late autumn to prevent tender new growth vulnerable to frost
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells to a fine powder; sprinkle 1 teaspoon per plant every 6 months and work lightly into the topsoil to avoid root disturbancePruning
- Trim new growth in late spring and early summer to maintain formal hedge or topiary shape
- Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches in early spring to improve airflow
- Avoid heavy pruning in late autumn to prevent winter injury to tender new growth
- Thin dense inner branches annually to reduce risk of fungal infections
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to alkaloids; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and tremors
Humans: Ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and abdominal pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used in formal European gardens for topiary and hedging since Roman times; symbolizes constancy and remembrance in memorial landscapes
Usage: Ornamental hedging, topiary, container gardening; dense wood historically used for carving and instrument making
