PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial shade to dappled sunlight; tolerates full sun in cool climates with consistent soil moisture
Watering
Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging during dormant winter months
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool temperate conditions, protect from extreme summer heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, softly hairy, aromatic when crushed, pale to mid-green
- Flower: Tubular two-lipped blooms, pale pink to white with purple lower-lip spots, clustered in whorls
- Stem: Square, hairy, upright, branching near the top
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; apply mulch to retain moisture
Fertilization
Apply diluted organic feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to prevent leggy growth and encourage flowering
Composted banana peel tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest infestationsPruning
- Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage prolonged blooming through early summer
- Cut back foliage to ground level after it dies back in late autumn
- Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve air circulation
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental cottage garden plant; attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies
