PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates light shade but reduces vibrant winter twig color
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once fully established
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; withstands cold temperate winters, avoids prolonged extreme heat above 32°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, ovate to elliptical, dark green turning purplish-red in autumn
- Flower: Clusters of small, creamy-white flat-topped cymes
- Stem: Young twigs turn bright crimson in winter, mature bark is brownish-grey
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply a 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost. Mulch with organic matter in spring to retain soil moisture and add slow-release nutrients
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle a 1 cm layer on soil surface in early spring to boost soil fertilityPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin overcrowded stems to improve airflow and light penetration
- Cut back one-third of old stems every 2–3 years to encourage vibrant new winter twig growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub for winter color; provides food and shelter for birds via its small black berries
