PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun exposure for optimal red bract color; tolerates bright indirect light for indoor container growth
Watering
Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18–30°C; protect from frost as temperatures below 10°C will kill the annual plant
Characteristics
- Leaf: Upper mature leaves turn bright crimson red; lower foliage is oval, light green with smooth margins
- Flower: Tiny true flowers cluster in cyathia, surrounded by showy, petal-like red bracts
- Stem: Smooth, green, and exudes milky white sap when broken or damaged
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; allow top 1–2 cm to dry between waterings
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can reduce bract color intensity
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water, and apply as a root drench; do not use raw peels to avoid pest infestationsPruning
- Deadhead spent bract clusters to encourage new growth and extend flowering period
- Trim leggy stems to maintain a compact, bushy form
- Remove yellowing lower leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; milky sap causes oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea
Humans: Milky sap causes mild skin and eye irritation; ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental bedding plant, container display, and pollinator garden addition
