PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; blooms best in full sun with afternoon shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; tolerates moderate summer heat, avoid prolonged extreme temperatures above 32°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, ovate to lanceolate, 3–7 cm long, dull green with fine hairs on undersides
- Flower: Bell-shaped, pale pink to rose-pink, clustered in dense terminal panicles
- Stem: Arching, brownish stems with peeling bark on mature plants
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during blooming season
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth over blooms
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around base in early spring; work lightly into topsoil to avoid runoffPruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to shape and remove spent blooms
- Thin out old, woody stems every 2–3 years to encourage new growth
- Remove damaged or diseased branches in late winter before new growth emerges
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes gentle beauty and spring renewal in temperate garden design
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; used in hedges or as a specimen plant
