PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of coastal salt spray and windy conditions
Watering
Tolerates wet, boggy soils; water regularly during prolonged dry spells to prevent leaf browning
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 7–10; withstands mild frost and summer heat without significant damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Leathery, elliptical evergreen leaves with smooth margins, glossy dark green upper surface
- Flower: Small, white, fragrant axillary clusters; dioecious (separate male/female plants)
- Fruit: Dark purple to black drupes, persistent through winter
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; tolerate temporary flooding
Fertilization
Apply diluted acidic fertilizer once monthly. Use fertilizer formulated for acid-loving evergreen shrubs
Coffee grounds compost tea：Use fully composted coffee grounds; dilute 1:25 with water for root drench to maintain soil acidity without burning rootsPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain plant shape and airflow
- Thin dense inner growth in early spring to improve light penetration for fruit production
- Prune to control height in early spring before new growth emerges
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains saponins and methylxanthines, causing vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy
Humans: Ingestion of leaves or fruit may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, including nausea and abdominal cramping
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental coastal shrub; fruit provides food for birds and wildlife
