PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in intense arid sunlight, with partial shade protection in extreme summer heat
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained substrates
Temperature
Thrives in warm, arid climates; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent foliage damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, fuzzy textured, green with maroon undersides and edging
- Flower: Clustered small red-pink blooms with bright yellow centers
- Stem: Slender green to brown stems containing milky, toxic sap
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply once weekly when top 5 cm of soil is dry
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen fertilizer once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to improve drainage and boost calcium levels without risking over-fertilizationPruning
- Wear protective gloves to avoid contact with toxic milky sap during pruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in early spring to encourage new growth
- Trim to maintain a rounded shrub shape after flowering cycles
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to phorbol esters; causes gastrointestinal distress and lethargy
Humans: Milky sap causes skin irritation; ingestion leads to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub for arid landscapes; traditional medicinal uses with strict toxicity precautions
