PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates mild afternoon shade in hot, arid climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Prefers 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C by moving indoors in cold regions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Round to kidney-shaped, softly hairy, serrated margins; emits rose-like scent when bruised
- Flower: Clusters of pale pink to lavender five-petaled blooms; delicate, small structure
- Stem: Succulent green to reddish-brown stems; branching, upright growth habit
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during hot, dry spells
Fertilization
Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn to support dormancy
Banana peel tea：Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days, strain, and dilute 1:10 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Pinch back stem tips in spring to encourage bushy, compact growth
- Deadhead spent flower clusters to extend the blooming period
- Trim leggy stems in late winter to maintain a neat, full habit
- Remove yellow or damaged leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no associated adverse health effects
Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for culinary use in small quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Associated with relaxation and aromatherapy; symbolizes comfort and calm in some contexts
Usage: Ornamental foliage; essential oil extraction for cosmetics and aromatherapy; culinary flavoring in small quantities
