PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial shade to dappled woodland sunlight; tolerates full sun in cool spring conditions
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging dormant roots
Temperature
Hardy to light spring frost; enters summer dormancy when temperatures exceed 25°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of narrow, succulent linear leaves; stem leaves are opposite, clasping
- Flower: Star-shaped pink to pale magenta blooms with 5 petals, opening only in sunlight
- Stem: Slender, reddish-tinged stems (key diagnostic trait)
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth; reduce as plant enters summer dormancy
Fertilization
Light, diluted feed once at growth onset. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen diluted feed to support bloom production
Composted eggshell powder：Sprinkle a thin layer around base of plants in early spring to support root and bloom development; avoid direct contact with foliagePruning
- Remove spent blooms to tidy plants after flowering
- Trim back yellowing foliage as plant enters summer dormancy
- Avoid disturbing underground tubers during dormant periods
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic; leaves have mild spinach-like edible flavor when young
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental for rock gardens and woodland edges; young leaves are edible raw or cooked
