PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun; tolerate bright indirect light indoors; avoid prolonged shade to maintain caudex shape
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent caudex rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm, dry conditions; protect from frost below 10°C to avoid tissue damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmate, glossy green leaves with 3–5 pointed lobes; arranged in whorls at stem tips
- Stem: Thick, bulbous caudex (buddha belly) for water storage; thin upper stems with sparse foliage
- Flower: Clusters of bright red, star-shaped blooms on long, slender stalks above foliage
Care Guide
Watering
Water when top 5 cm of soil is fully dry; avoid wetting the caudex directly
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter to support dormancy
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and water in to release nutrients without causing soil acidityPruning
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
- Trim leggy upper stems in spring to encourage compact, bushier growth
- Cut back spent flower stalks to promote new bloom production
- Avoid cutting into the swollen caudex unless removing rotting tissue
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential liver irritation
Humans: Contains diterpenoid esters; ingestion causes oral irritation, nausea, and vomiting; sap may irritate skin
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental caudex plant for container gardens and xeriscaping
