PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes maximum flowering; tolerates mild shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to mild frost (-5°C); thrives in temperate to subtropical temperature ranges
Characteristics
- Leaf: Round to broadly ovate, fuzzy silvery undersides, serrated margins, up to 10 cm wide
- Flower: Dense clusters of fragrant pale pink to white bell-shaped blooms, up to 2 cm in diameter
- Stem/Bark: Grey-brown rough textured bark; young stems covered in fine soft hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and flowering
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once monthly. Prioritize phosphorus-rich feed to support flower production
Composted banana peel tea：Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest attractionPruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to remove dead blooms and shape the shrub
- Thin crowded inner branches to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
- Remove low-growing suckers to encourage strong main stem development
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA does not list this plant as toxic to cats
Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cut flower for floral arrangements; traditional medicinal use for treating coughs and respiratory irritation
