PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates moderate shade but produces fewer flowers and fruits
Watering
Water deeply and infrequently; allow the top 15–20 cm of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -12°C; tolerates high summer heat but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged drought
Characteristics
- Leaf: Leathery, elliptical to oblong leaves; glossy dark green above, paler beneath; aromatic when crushed
- Flower: Clusters of small, white, fragrant five-petaled flowers
- Fruit: Small, black, cherry-like drupes (1–1.5 cm diameter)
- Stem: Slender, gray-brown branches with smooth bark when young
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry spells; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring to support new growth. Do not fertilize in late autumn to avoid stimulating tender growth vulnerable to winter damage
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the plant and water in to release calcium graduallyPruning
- Prune in late spring after flowering to maintain desired shape and remove dead or diseased branches
- Thin dense inner growth to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
- Remove suckers from the base to prevent overcrowding and maintain a tidy form
- Avoid heavy pruning in late autumn to prevent winter damage to tender new growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains cyanogenic glycosides that can cause severe gastrointestinal and respiratory distress
Humans: Ingestion of leaves or fruit pits releases cyanogenic glycosides, causing oral irritation, nausea, or moderate systemic toxicity in large doses
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental hedge or specimen tree; foliage used in floral arrangements
