PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind, drought, and poor soil conditions
Watering
Water deeply when top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once fully established
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; tolerates moderate summer heat and coastal salt spray
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval, leathery leaves with dark green upper surfaces and silvery, scaly undersides
- Flower: Small, creamy-white, highly fragrant blooms clustered in leaf axils
- Stem: Slender brown stems with sparse silvery scales on new growth
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during first 2 years of establishment; reduce once mature
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release granular fertilizer once. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive soft growth that is prone to wind damage
Eggshell powder top dressing：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the shrub; water lightly to release calcium into the soilPruning
- Trim hedges in late spring after flowering to maintain shape and avoid removing next year's flower buds
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in early spring to improve airflow
- Thin overcrowded growth to enhance light penetration to inner foliage
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Hedging, windbreak, ornamental specimen; fragrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators
