PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Tolerates full sun to partial shade; thrives in dappled garden light and avoids extreme midday sun
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; drought-tolerant once established in garden beds
Temperature
Hardy to light frost; survives mild winter temperatures in temperate regions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, fuzzy, green to purplish upper leaves arranged oppositely on stems
- Flower: Tubular purple-pink blooms in whorls at leaf axils with a two-lipped corolla
- Stem: Square, hairy, trailing or upright, forming dense spreading mats
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Optional diluted feed once monthly if growing in poor soil. Use balanced, low-strength feed to avoid excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without burning shallow rootsPruning
- Trim back spent blooms to encourage extended flowering through early summer
- Thin dense mats to improve airflow and prevent fungal growth in damp conditions
- Remove unwanted spreading growth to maintain garden border lines
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; leaves and flowers are edible in small quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Edible leaves and flowers for salads; pollinator-friendly wild garden plant
