PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Thrives in full sun to partial sun; requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant blooming
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; optimal growing temperature range is 15–25°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow lance-shaped gray-green foliage with slightly serrated edges
- Flower: Spider-like deep purple ray florets surrounding a dark central disc
- Stem: Slender branching green stems forming a tight, rounded mound
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water 1–2 times weekly
Fertilization
Diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote more blooms rather than foliage growth
Banana peel tea：Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 1 liter of water for 24 hours; strain and apply directly to soil to support flower productionPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season
- Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to maintain a compact, mounding shape
- Cut back to 10 cm above soil level in late autumn for overwintering in mild climates
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no harmful compounds present
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden bedding plant, container gardening, cut flower arrangements
