PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid harsh midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 15–22°C; protect from frost below 10°C by moving indoor in cold climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, lanceolate to ovate leaves with serrated margins, bronze-green to deep purple foliage
- Flower: Tubular, pendent blooms with red sepals and purple corollas, clustered at stem tips
- Stem: Slender, green to reddish-brown stems, branching freely to form a dense bush
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Pause fertilization in late autumn and winter when growth slows
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 before applying as a root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Pinch back young stem tips in early spring to promote dense, bushy growth
- Trim leggy or damaged stems in late winter to maintain a compact, tidy form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects if ingested or touched
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or skin contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes love and trust; popular in cottage garden designs for its long blooming period
Usage: Ornamental container plant, attracts hummingbirds and pollinating bees
