PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial sun but produces fewer blooms
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot; avoid overwatering in cool months
Temperature
Thrives in 18–28°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent stem damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oval, glossy green leaves clustered at stem tips
- Flower: Tiny true flowers surrounded by bright red bracts; long-lasting blooms
- Stem: Woody, thorny stems containing milky white latex sap
Care Guide
Watering
Water when top 5 cm of soil is fully dry; reduce frequency during rainy spells
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen feed once every 2 months. High-phosphorus feed promotes more abundant blooming
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; mix into the top 1 cm of soil every 3 months to boost drainage and calcium levelsPruning
- Wear gloves to avoid contact with milky sap during pruning
- Trim leggy stems in spring to maintain a compact, bushy form
- Remove spent bracts to encourage continuous blooming
- Cut back overgrown branches to promote new growth and improve airflow
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; sap contains diterpene esters causing oral irritation, vomiting, and pawing at the mouth
Humans: Milky sap causes skin irritation; ingestion leads to mild oral discomfort and nausea
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience and enduring beauty; popular for low-maintenance ornamental displays
Usage: Indoor potted plant, container rock garden, warm-climate border plant
