PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect or dappled shade; avoid direct midday sun which causes leaf scorching
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the root ball to dry out completely
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; prefers cool to temperate growing conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Large, rounded to kidney-shaped glossy green leaves; variegated cultivars have pale yellow margins
- Flower: Daisy-like yellow composite blooms on tall, upright smooth stalks
- Stem: Thick, fleshy green petioles support basal leaves; flower stalks grow 0.6–1.2 m tall
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Stop fertilizing in autumn as growth slows for the winter
Banana peel tea：Chop 1 banana peel, steep in 1 liter of water for 3 days, strain, and use to water plants to boost nutrient uptakePruning
- Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to foliage growth
- Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain plant appearance
- Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in spring to promote healthy growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shade plant; cut foliage used in floral arrangements
