PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure for abundant blooms; tolerates light partial shade in extremely hot climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal issues
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperate to warm temperatures; is frost-tender and will die back with frost exposure
Characteristics
- Leaf: Finely bipinnate, feathery, bright green, fern-like texture
- Flower: Daisy-like composite heads, 5–10 cm diameter; colors include white, pink, magenta, orange, yellow
- Stem: Slender, branching, green to reddish-brown, slightly hairy
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Light, diluted feed once every 4 weeks if soil is nutrient-poor. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute the tea 1:20 with water before applying as a root drench to promote abundant bloomsPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Pinch back young seedlings when they reach 10–15 cm tall to promote bushier growth and more flower stems
- Remove leggy or damaged stems to maintain a compact, tidy habit
- Cut back entire plants to ground level after flowering to tidy garden beds and prepare for next season
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no harmful effects from ingestion
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes peace, love, and harmony; a popular cottage garden staple
Usage: Cut flower for floral arrangements, garden ornamental, and pollinator plant to support bees and butterflies
