Plant Needs
Sunlight
Thrives in full sun to partial sun; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot, arid regions to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to short-term -10°C frost; optimal growing range is 18–25°C; protect from prolonged freezing temperatures
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow lanceolate leaves, medium green, with fine fuzzy texture and serrated edges
- Flower: Cup-shaped bright lemon-yellow blooms, opening in evening and closing by midday
- Stem: Slender upright green stems covered in short, soft hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water 1–2 times weekly
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn to support natural dormancy
Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks to break down fully; steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to maintain a compact, clumping shape
- Cut back foliage to 5 cm above soil level in late autumn to prepare for winter dormancy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; supports nocturnal pollinators like moths and bees
PlantFun







