PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind and salt spray for coastal landscape use
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to 10°C; avoid prolonged frost; thrives in warm subtropical climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, elliptical, glossy dark green leaves; leathery texture, 5–10 cm long
- Flower: Small, creamy-white, fragrant panicles clustered at branch tips
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray bark on young stems; becomes fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Water every 5–7 days during dry spells to support new growth
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once to support spring growth. Do not over-fertilize to avoid excessive leggy foliage
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base every 6 months; water lightly to incorporate into soilPruning
- Prune in late winter to shape hedges or maintain a desired tree form
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim new growth regularly to encourage dense, compact foliage for hedging applications
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No recorded toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental hedge, coastal landscape plant; wood historically used for ink making
