PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers partial shade to full sun; tolerates dappled shade in hot climates, avoid prolonged intense midday sun
Watering
Water deeply when top 5–7 cm of soil dries; avoid waterlogging, ensure good drainage
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool temperate climates, avoid extreme heat above 32°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, ovate to elliptical leaves with pointed tips, dark green above and pale below, turning red-purple in autumn.
- Flower: Showy white bracts (4–6 per inflorescence) surrounding small greenish-yellow true flowers; bracts may have pink tints in cool weather.
- Stem/Bark: Young stems are greenish-brown, maturing to gray-brown with scaly, fissured bark on mature trees.
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth; apply 5–7 cm of organic mulch to retain moisture
Fertilization
Apply balanced organic fertilizer once in early spring before new growth. Do not fertilize in autumn or winter to prevent frost damage to new, tender growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the tree in early spring; work lightly into the top 2 cm of soil to avoid disturbing shallow rootsPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges to maintain tree health.
- Thin crowded inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration for better flowering.
- Prune lightly to maintain desired shape; avoid heavy pruning as it can reduce flowering in subsequent growing seasons.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects reported from ingestion
Humans: No known toxic effects for humans; berries are non-toxic but not palatable for consumption
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience and natural beauty in Pacific Northwest indigenous and regional culture
Usage: Ornamental garden tree; berries provide food for songbirds and small mammals
