Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates drought once established
Watering
Water deeply only when top 5–7 cm of soil is fully dry; avoid waterlogging
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C; tolerant of hot, arid summer conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, leathery obovate to elliptical leaves; glossy dark green
- Flower: Clusters of fragrant, tiny white star-shaped blossoms
- Stem/Bark: Thorny branches with sharp paired spines at leaf nodes
Care Guide
Watering
Water every 7–10 days; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Fertilization
Feed once monthly with diluted balanced fertilizer. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to support dormancy
Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and gently work into top layer to avoid odor or pest issuesPruning
- Trim overgrown branches in late winter to maintain compact, rounded shape
- Remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood to improve airflow
- Thin dense inner branches to encourage light penetration and flowering
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: No documented toxic effects on cats (ASPCA unlisted; no confirmed toxicity)
Humans: No documented toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Hedge plant, wildlife shelter for birds, ornamental garden shrub
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