PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates compacted, low-nutrient soils common in disturbed areas
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only during prolonged, extreme dry periods to avoid overwatering
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures; damaged or killed by frost below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oblong to elliptic, opposite, light green with tiny serrated margins
- Flower: Tiny, inconspicuous greenish-white cyathia clustered in leaf axils
- Stem: Slender, branching, prostrate, exuding milky sap when broken
Care Guide
Watering
Water sparingly only when top 5 cm of soil is completely dry
Fertilization
No fertilization required; grows well in nutrient-poor soil. Fertilizer may encourage excessive growth and spread in garden settings
Crushed eggshell topdressing：Sprinkle finely crushed, dried eggshells around plant bases to enhance drainage; avoid applying directly to foliagePruning
- Pull entire plants by the root to prevent regrowth in unwanted areas
- Remove flowering stems before seed set to limit spread
- Dispose of removed plants carefully to avoid sap contact with skin or eyes
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; milky sap causes oral pain, hypersalivation, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested
Humans: Milky sap causes oral irritation and stomach upset if ingested; skin irritation on contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: N/A
