PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C with winter mulch protection; prefers cool to temperate conditions, avoid prolonged heat over 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins; glossy green foliage
- Flower: Pendulous, bi-colored tubular blooms with sepals in pink/red and petals in purple/white
- Stem: Slender, green to reddish-brown woody stems; trailing varieties suitable for hanging baskets
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Stop feeding in late autumn to allow the plant to enter dormancy
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Prune back to 10–15 cm above soil in early spring to encourage bushy new growth
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to prolong the flowering period
- Trim leggy stems mid-summer to maintain a compact, tidy shape
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes love and confiding affection in Victorian floriography
Usage: Ornamental for hanging baskets, garden borders, and container gardening
