PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; highly tolerant of coastal salt spray and windy conditions
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to light frost; adapts to coastal heat and cool temperate climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow lanceolate glossy green leaves, 1–2 cm long, aromatic when crushed
- Flower: Profuse 1–2 cm diameter white five-petaled blooms with golden stamens
- Stem/Bark: Peeling reddish-brown fibrous bark with a textured appearance
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during first 1–2 years of establishment; reduce once mature
Fertilization
Light low-phosphorus feed once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth over blooming
Composted eggshell powder：Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; mix 1 part powder into 10 parts topsoil in early spring to improve soil structure and add calciumPruning
- Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain compact rounded shape
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Thin dense inner growth to encourage better light penetration and blooming the following season
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats from plant material
Humans: No significant toxicity reported from moderate handling or accidental ingestion of plant material
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental coastal landscaping; provides forage for native bees and honey production
