PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates afternoon shade in hot summer climates to prevent foliage scorch
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool to temperate conditions; protect from extreme summer heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of pinnately divided, fuzzy green leaves; stem leaves smaller and simpler
- Flower: Bright scarlet, semi-double to double blooms on slender, branching stems
- Stem: Slender, hairy stems that hold flowers above foliage
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; water when top 2 cm of soil dries out
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late summer to prepare plants for dormancy
Banana peel compost tea：Soak 1 fully composted banana peel in 1L of water for 24 hours, dilute 1:10 before applying to soil; avoid raw peels to prevent pest issuesPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage prolonged flowering through early summer
- Trim back faded foliage in late autumn to tidy clumps and reduce overwintering pest habitat
- Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to maintain vigor
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirms non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental rock garden and alpine border plant; cut flower for small bouquets
