PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun to produce blooms; tolerates coastal salt spray and windy maritime conditions
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established, avoid waterlogged soil which causes root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; thrives in cool coastal summers and mild winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Grey-green, fleshy, lobed leaves covered in fine white hairs to reduce water loss
- Flower: Large, 6–8 cm wide, bright yellow papery petals with prominent yellow stamens
- Fruit: Long, upward-curving horn-like seed pods (15–30 cm) that split to release tiny seeds
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; allow top 2–3 cm to dry between waterings
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flowering rather than excessive leaf growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium without burning delicate rootsPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering through early summer
- Remove yellowing or damaged foliage in late autumn to reduce fungal spore buildup
- Trim back old, woody stems to 5 cm above soil level in early spring to promote new growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy
Humans: Contains toxic alkaloids; ingestion causes gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, and abdominal cramping
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental coastal garden plant; historically used in herbal medicine but not recommended due to toxicity
