PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade outdoors; bright indirect light for indoor potted plants; tolerates short periods of low light
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 15–25°C; established outdoor plants tolerate brief light frosts down to -5°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Glossy, dark green, lanceolate leaves with leathery texture and aromatic scent when crushed
- Flower: Small, pale yellow-green, clustered umbels; inconspicuous but fragrant
- Stem/Bark: Smooth, grayish-brown bark on young plants; becomes fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Feed with balanced diluted fertilizer every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
Eggshell powder top dressing：Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshell powder on the soil surface; gently work into the top 1 cm of soil to avoid disturbing rootsPruning
- Prune in late winter to shape the plant and remove dead or damaged branches
- Harvest mature leaves regularly by cutting stems to encourage new growth
- Trim overgrown indoor plants to maintain a compact, manageable size
- Remove suckers from the base to promote a single trunk form for tree specimens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion
Humans: No known toxicity; leaves are safe for culinary use when cooked (raw leaves may cause mild oral irritation in large quantities)
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbol of wisdom and victory in ancient Greece and Rome; used to make wreaths for scholars and athletes
Usage: Culinary herb for flavoring soups, stews, and sauces; ornamental hedge or topiary plant
