PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates afternoon shade in hot, arid regions to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C, as it is a tender perennial that may die back to tubers in cool winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval to lanceolate soft green leaves, opposite arrangement with slightly serrated margins
- Flower: Tubular fragrant white to pale pink blooms that open in late afternoon and close by mid-morning
- Stem: Succulent green to reddish-brown branching stems with upright growth habit
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase watering frequency during prolonged heatwaves
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn as growth slows for dormancy
Banana peel compost tea：Fully compost banana peels to break down nutrients, dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching; avoid using raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Trim leggy stems in mid-summer to promote bushier, more compact growth
- Cut back foliage to ground level after the first frost in cooler regions to prepare tubers for winter dormancy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-aligned (closely related to toxic Mirabilis species); ingestion may cause vomiting and diarrhea
Humans: Contains low levels of alkaloids; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and stomach pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes hidden beauty and spontaneity due to its evening-opening blooms
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; fragrant blooms attract nocturnal moths and daytime hummingbirds
