PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates reflected heat and dry, sunny growing spots
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures; tolerates light frost but may die back in prolonged cold
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oblong to oval, bright green, opposite arrangement, up to 5 mm long
- Flower: Tiny greenish-yellow cyathia (false flowers) clustered in leaf axils, no true petals
- Stem: Slender, creeping, freely branching to form dense, low mats
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen feed once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface; gently work into the top 1 cm to boost soil drainage and calcium levels without risking nutrient burnPruning
- Trim back overgrown stems to maintain a compact, uniform mat shape
- Remove dead or yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
- Cut back spent flower clusters after blooming to encourage new growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; milky sap causes oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea
Humans: Milky sap may cause skin redness, itching, or mild oral discomfort if ingested
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, erosion control on slopes, container edging
