PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright partial sun to full sun; tolerates light shade in hot Mediterranean climates to avoid leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C; prefers temperate to warm Mediterranean conditions; protect young plants from harsh winter frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear, leathery evergreen leaves, dark green above and pale beneath
- Flower: Clusters of small, fragrant white to pale yellow tubular blooms
- Stem: Slender, woody stems with smooth, grayish-brown bark
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not saturated
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flowering without excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainagePruning
- Remove spent flower clusters in early summer to maintain tidy form
- Thin overcrowded branches in late winter to improve airflow and light penetration
- Prune damaged or diseased stems promptly to prevent spread of pathogens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy
Humans: Ingestion causes gastrointestinal distress, oral irritation, and potential systemic effects
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; historical folk medicinal uses are not recommended due to toxicity
