PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates mild shade but produces more blooms in full sun
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–10 cm of soil dries out; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to mild frost; thrives in warm temperate to subtropical climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Simple, ovate to elliptical, glossy dark green, 8–18 cm long with entire margins
- Flower: Small, white, fragrant, clustered in terminal cymes
- Stem/Bark: Gray-brown, smooth when young, becoming fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Eggshell powder top-dress：Grind dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the plant monthly to boost soil calcium contentPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to improve airflow and shape
- Thin overcrowded growth in early spring to encourage better flowering
- Trim back overly long branches to maintain desired form after blooming
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA unlisted; no confirmed toxic effects on cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shade tree; provides habitat and nectar for pollinators
