Small-leaf Premna (Premna microphylla)

Small-leaf Premna

Premna microphylla

Tiny, dense foliage creates soft, textured groundcover. Evergreen flowering shrub; common name: Small-leaf Premna.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil dries out; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25℃; protect from frost and temperatures below 10℃
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small ovate to elliptic leaves; glossy dark green, opposite arrangement with entire margins
  • Flower: Dense axillary clusters of tiny white to pale yellow tubular blooms
  • Stem: Slender woody stems with fine, soft pubescence on new growth
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; increase watering frequency during hot, dry spells

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel tea:Chop banana peels and soak in water for 3 days; dilute the tea 1:20 before applying to soil to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown stems in early spring to maintain a compact, mounding shape
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to keep the plant tidy and encourage potential reblooming
  • Remove yellow or damaged leaves regularly to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover; occasional use in traditional herbal medicine in some regions