PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C; prefers cool temperate conditions, avoid prolonged heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Large, leathery dark green leaves with serrated edges; up to 20 cm long, opposite arrangement
- Flower: Clustered corymbs with small fertile flowers framed by larger white to pale pink sterile bracts
- Stem: Woody branching stems with smooth, light brown bark
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated
Fertilization
Diluted acidic fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms
Pine needle and coffee ground tea：Steep 1 cup of composted coffee grounds and 2 cups of pine needles in 5 liters of water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 before applying to maintain acidic soil pHPruning
- Remove spent flower heads after blooming to promote new growth for the following season
- Thin overcrowded branches in late winter to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim back damaged or diseased stems to healthy wood in early spring
- Avoid heavy pruning to preserve the shrub's natural upright habit
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to cyanogenic glycosides; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy
Humans: Mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested; may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; cut flower arrangements
