PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright partial sun; tolerate light shade, avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in cool temperate to Mediterranean climates; tolerate light frost down to 5°C but protect from hard freezes
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of finely divided, fern-like green leaves with a soft texture
- Flower: Dense upright spikes of small, pale pink to lavender tubular blooms with subtle yellow throats
- Stem: Slender, branching green stems with sparse, reduced foliage
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once every 2 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering rather than foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush thoroughly dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to improve drainage and add calcium; avoid direct contact with plant rootsPruning
- Deadhead spent flower spikes promptly to encourage prolonged blooming
- Trim back wilted foliage in late autumn to tidy the planting area
- Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Remove any damaged or yellowing leaves throughout the growing season
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: Contains alkaloids that may cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested, per poppy family toxicity profiles
Humans: Contains isoquinoline alkaloids; ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental rock garden and alpine plant; used in xeriscaping for low-water landscapes
