PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, nutrient-poor soils without stunted growth
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; withstands moderate summer heat without frequent supplemental watering
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound leaves with rounded, serrated leaflets; bright green, aromatic when crushed
- Flower: Dense, spherical reddish-purple flower heads atop slender stems
- Stem: Slender, upright, branching stems with minimal foliage near the top
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; only water during extended dry spells if foliage wilts
Fertilization
Light, diluted organic feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote compact foliage rather than tall stems
Composted eggshell powder：Sprinkle a thin layer around base of plants in early spring to boost soil calcium levels and prevent nutrient deficienciesPruning
- Deadhead spent flower heads to encourage prolonged foliage production for culinary use
- Cut back entire plant to ground level in late autumn to promote fresh, dense spring growth
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; safe for culinary and medicinal use
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Culinary herb (add fresh leaves to salads, drinks for cucumber-like flavor); traditional medicinal astringent
