PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerant of intense Mediterranean sunlight and heat
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently, avoid waterlogged soil
Temperature
Hardy to mild frost (down to 5°C); thrives in warm, dry Mediterranean climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oblong to elliptical leaves with silvery-gray undersides, leathery texture
- Flower: Tiny pale yellow to greenish-white clustered flowers, inconspicuous
- Stem: Slender gray-brown stems with sparse thorns on mature plants
Care Guide
Watering
Water every 7–10 days during dry spells; allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings
Fertilization
Apply diluted compost tea once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the cost of flowering
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainagePruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain plant health and shape
- Thin dense inner growth to improve airflow and light penetration
- Trim back overgrown stems after flowering to encourage compact, bushy growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Mildly toxic; ingestion of berries may cause vomiting and diarrhea
Humans: Ingestion of large quantities of berries may cause mild gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental hedging for xeriscaping; berries provide food for native birds
