PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal salt exposure; shelter from intense midday summer sun in hot inland regions
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to mild frosts down to 5°C; prefers cool temperate conditions; protect from temperatures below 0°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Deeply dissected, fern-like green leaves forming dense basal rosettes with a soft hairy texture.
- Flower: Clusters of bright magenta, five-petaled blooms on tall, branching upright stems.
- Stem: Thick, hairy stems that die back to the basal rosette after flowering completes.
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated; increase frequency during prolonged hot, dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks during active growth. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to prioritize flower production over excessive leaf growth
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solid peels to avoid pest infestations and odorPruning
- Deadhead spent flower clusters promptly to encourage extended blooming period.
- Cut back dying upright stems to ground level after flowering to tidy the basal rosette.
- Remove damaged or yellowing leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-listed non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats from ingestion or contact
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; ideal for rock gardens, border plantings, and coastal landscapes
