PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming; tolerate light shade in hot summer climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; prefers cool 15–22°C temperatures for blooming; protect from extreme heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, gray-green linear leaves, opposite arrangement, waxy coating to reduce water loss
- Flower: Ruffled, double blooms in pink, red, white, or yellow; emits a spicy clove fragrance
- Stem: Slender, rigid green stems with minimal branching
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water early in the day to minimize fungal risk
Fertilization
Apply balanced diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flower production over foliage growth
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle 1 teaspoon per plant around the base; water gently to release calcium into the soilPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering through the growing season
- Cut back stems by half after the first bloom cycle to stimulate new growth and secondary blooms
- Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA verified: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes love, fascination, and distinction; widely used in wedding bouquets and funeral arrangements
Usage: Cut flower for floral arrangements, garden ornamental, and potpourri for its long-lasting fragrance
