PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect or dappled shade; avoid intense midday direct sunlight which can scorch foliage
Watering
Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to cool temperate climates; tolerates mild frost, prefers temperatures between 10–22°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Leathery lanceolate to oblong leaves, glossy dark green, aromatic when crushed
- Flower: Bell-shaped white or pale pink flowers, clustered in axillary racemes
- Stem: Slender creeping woody stems that root at nodes to spread horizontally
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted acidic fertilizer once monthly. Use fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants to support foliage and flower production
Spent tea leaves compost：Mix fully decomposed spent tea leaves into topsoil to lower pH and add organic nutrients; avoid raw leaves to prevent mold growthPruning
- Trim back overgrown trailing stems in early spring to maintain a compact habit
- Remove dead or yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Thin crowded stems to encourage new growth and even spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Mildly toxic; ingestion may cause gastrointestinal distress
Humans: Mild toxicity from methyl salicylate; large ingestion may cause salicylate-related symptoms
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Shaded garden groundcover; aromatic foliage used in small quantities for herbal teas
