PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers partial sun to dappled shade; avoid intense midday direct sun which can scorch foliage
Watering
Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot
Temperature
Thrives in 15–22°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent foliage damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Trifoliate heart-shaped bright green leaves, fold in response to light and darkness
- Flower: Pale pink to white five-petaled cup-shaped blooms, held above foliage on slender stalks
- Stem: Fleshy creeping rhizomes that enable rapid clonal spread
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels, dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Trim yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain a tidy clump
- Remove spent flower stems to encourage continuous blooming through the growing season
- Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; soluble calcium oxalate crystals cause oral pain, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing
Humans: Contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion may cause mild oral irritation, nausea, or stomach upset if large quantities are consumed
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental ground cover for shaded areas; leaves have a tangy, citrus-like flavor and are edible in small quantities
