PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal salt spray and windy conditions
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperate to tropical climates; tolerates short periods of light frost (down to 10°C)
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, glossy green with purple undersides and vibrant purple new growth; 10–15 cm wide
- Flower: Cup-shaped blooms, opening yellow and fading to orange-red by late day; 8–10 cm diameter
- Stem: Mature plants have gray-brown, slightly fissured bark; young stems are green with purple tinges
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth over flowering
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to promote bloom productionPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in early spring to maintain canopy shape
- Trim back overgrown stems to encourage bushier, more compact growth
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming during the flowering season
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans; flowers may be used in herbal teas in some regions
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental coastal landscaping, hedging; flowers used in traditional crafts and herbal infusions
