PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; golden foliage fades in deep shade
Watering
Allow top 2 cm of soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; tolerates warm summer temperatures up to 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small oval bright golden-yellow leaves; highly aromatic when crushed
- Flower: Tiny pale pink to white tubular flowers in dense terminal spikes
- Stem: Slender branching stems, green to reddish-brown with fine hair
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; water when topsoil feels dry
Fertilization
Diluted balanced organic feed once every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feeds to preserve golden foliage color
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly over soil surface every 3 months to add calcium without burning rootsPruning
- Pinch back stem tips regularly to encourage bushy, compact growth
- Deadhead spent flower spikes to redirect energy to foliage production
- Trim back leggy growth in early spring to refresh the plant
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; safe for culinary use
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used in Mediterranean cuisine and herbal remedies; symbolizes joy and abundance
Usage: Culinary herb for pizzas, sauces, and salads; ornamental ground cover for rock gardens
