PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates exposed rocky sites with direct sunlight for most of the day
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to fully dry between waterings
Temperature
Hardy to cold winter temperatures down to -15°C; tolerates summer highs up to 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small oval evergreen leaves, dark green above, paler beneath, with smooth margins
- Flower: Tiny greenish-yellow inconspicuous flowers in axillary clusters
- Stem: Slender woody stems forming a dense low mat
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during prolonged dry spells to prevent wilting
Fertilization
Optional light feed with diluted organic fertilizer once in early spring. No regular fertilization is required for established plants
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium without over-fertilizing; avoid direct contact with stemsPruning
- Trim back overgrown stems in late winter to maintain compact mat form
- Remove dead or damaged branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Thin dense growth occasionally to prevent overcrowding and promote even foliage
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA does not list this species as toxic to cats; no confirmed adverse effects
Humans: Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal distress due to anthraquinone compounds
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens; erosion control on sloped rocky sites
