PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure required for abundant flowering; tolerates reflected heat and dry conditions
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water deeply but infrequently, allow soil to fully dry between waterings
Temperature
Hardy to mild frosts; prefers warm, dry Mediterranean climates; avoid prolonged temperatures below 5°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, grey-green, crinkled (crisped) edges, covered in fine white hairs for drought tolerance
- Flower: 5-petaled, bright pink to rose-purple, yellow stamens at center, short-lived 1-day blooms
- Stem: Woody, branching, silver-grey pubescent stems
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce during extreme heatwaves
Fertilization
Apply a diluted low-nitrogen fertilizer once at the start of growth. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which can promote leggy growth over flowering
Crushed eggshell powder：Sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface every 3 months; no dilution needed, as it breaks down slowly to release nutrientsPruning
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage new growth
- Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring to improve airflow
- Avoid heavy pruning, as woody stems do not regrow vigorously from old wood
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Associated with Mediterranean coastal landscapes, symbolizes resilience in dry conditions
Usage: Ornamental for rock gardens, xeriscapes, and low hedges; attracts pollinators like bees
