PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense summer sun in dry climates
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water deeply only when top 5–7 cm of soil is completely dry
Temperature
Hardy to mild frosts; thrives in warm, low-humidity conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Compound pinnate leaves with 5 oval, softly hairy leaflets; silvery-green, dense foliage
- Flower: Small pea-like blooms, pale yellow to creamy white; clustered in axillary racemes
- Stem: Prostrate, trailing stems that root at nodes to form tight, spreading mats
Care Guide
Watering
Water once weekly during extended dry periods
Fertilization
Light top-dressing with compost optional. Skip fertilization in poor soil to maintain compact growth habit
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp per square meter in early spring; work lightly into topsoilPruning
- Trim back overgrown stems in early spring to maintain compact mat form
- Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding if unwanted
- Thin dense mats annually to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-listed non-toxic; no adverse effects reported for cats
Humans: No documented toxic effects for human ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens, slopes, and dry borders; soil stabilization for erosion-prone areas
