PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full to partial sun; tolerates light shade but produces the most blooms in bright, consistent sunlight
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical temperatures; protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins, glossy green upper surface
- Flower: Tubular white or pale purple flowers with long, protruding stamens resembling cat whiskers
- Stem: Square, green to reddish-brown stems typical of mint family plants
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Pause fertilization in winter when growth slows
Banana peel tea：Soak 1-2 dried banana peels in 1 liter of water for 3 days, strain, and use to water plants directly to support bloom productionPruning
- Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming
- Trim back leggy stems in early spring to promote bushier, compact growth
- Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and improve air circulation
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans; used in traditional herbal teas for urinary support
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used in traditional Southeast Asian herbal medicine to support urinary tract health
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; dried leaves used to make herbal tea
