PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun; tolerates partial shade in hot, arid regions; requires direct sunlight for optimal flowering
Watering
Drought-tolerant; only water during prolonged dry spells to avoid waterlogging
Temperature
Hardy to USDA Zone 5; tolerates frost and cold winter temperatures down to -15°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oval, gray-green, hairy leaves growing in whorls or opposite pairs
- Flower: Dense clusters of bright yellow pea-like blooms with five petals
- Stem: Slender, trailing woody stems that root at nodes to spread horizontally
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during extended dry periods; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Fertilization
Light top-dressing with compost in early spring to support bloom production. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can reduce flowering and promote excessive foliage growth
Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels steeped in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burn and pest infestationsPruning
- Trim back faded flower clusters after blooming to encourage compact, dense growth
- Remove dead or damaged wood in early spring before new growth emerges
- Thin overcrowded stems to improve airflow and light penetration across the mat
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and incoordination
Humans: Contains quinolizidine alkaloids; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in large quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental groundcover for rock gardens; provides nectar for bees and other pollinators
