PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for optimal blooming; tolerates light partial shade but may produce fewer flowers
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 3–9; withstands mild frost and hot summer heat without damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow lance-shaped gray-green foliage with fine, soft hairs
- Flower: 7–10 cm wide daisy-like blooms with red-orange petals and yellow tips, central brown disc
- Stem: Slender upright stems with minimal branching, covered in fine pubescence
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce flower production
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Cut back foliage to 5 cm above soil level in late autumn to prepare for winter dormancy
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed 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: Symbolizes cheer and resilience in ornamental garden design
Usage: Ornamental for rock gardens, border edging, and container planting
