PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full to partial direct sunlight daily; tolerate light shade but need direct sun for robust growth and leaf production
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperate to subtropical climates; cannot survive frost or temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, elliptical, glossy dark green leaves with serrated margins
- Flower: Small, white to pale green, clustered in axillary inflorescences
- Stem: Woody, branching stems with pale brown bark
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase watering frequency during hot, dry periods
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilizing in autumn and winter when growth slows
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainage; avoid applying directly to plant foliagePruning
- Prune to maintain desired shape in early spring before new growth begins
- Remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
- Thin dense foliage to promote even light penetration across the shrub
- Avoid heavy pruning during flowering season to preserve blooms
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA has limited formal data, but ingestion may cause restlessness, elevated heart rate, tremors, and vomiting
Humans: Contains cathinone, a controlled substance in many regions; ingestion causes stimulant effects, addiction risk, and potential cardiac complications with chronic use
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Psychoactive stimulant (young fresh leaves); ornamental shrub in regions where cultivation is legal
