PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal salt spray and light frost exposure
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; thrives in cool temperate conditions and tolerates mild summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Dark green, oblong to lanceolate leaves arranged in whorls along erect stems
- Flower: Small yellow-green cyathia clustered in terminal umbels; no true petals
- Stem: Green, rigid stems containing milky latex sap when broken
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use half-strength liquid feed to avoid burning shallow, fibrous roots
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium without altering soil pHPruning
- Remove spent flower heads after blooming to maintain tidy growth
- Trim back overgrown stems in late spring to preserve compact clump form
- Cut back frost-damaged growth in early spring before new shoots emerge
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-listed toxic; ingestion may cause drooling, vomiting, and oral mucosal irritation
Humans: Milky latex sap causes mild skin irritation on contact and oral/stomach upset if ingested
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant for winter floral interest and erosion control
