PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect light or partial shade; avoid hot midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -30°C in dormancy; prefers cool temperate conditions and dies back in summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Fern-like, blue-green compound leaves with finely divided, delicate leaflets
- Flower: Pendulous, heart-shaped pink or white blooms with protruding inner petals resembling a drop of blood
- Stem: Erect, hollow green stems that die back to the ground after flowering
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy during active growth
Fertilization
Feed with balanced diluted fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to prioritize bloom production over foliage growth
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20, and apply as a root drench to avoid odor and pest issuesPruning
- Cut back dying foliage to ground level after flowering to encourage tidy growth
- Remove spent blooms to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
- Divide overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to refresh plants
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-confirmed toxic; contains isoquinoline alkaloids that affect the nervous and digestive systems
Humans: Mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities; oral irritation possible
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes unrequited love and compassion in Victorian floriography
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cut flower for floral arrangements
