PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright partial shade; avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch; tolerate morning sun exposure
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; protect from extreme summer heat above 30°C to prevent stress
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval to oblong, 3–7 cm long, pale green with fuzzy undersides, deciduous in winter
- Flower: Fragrant funnel-shaped blooms in terminal clusters, 3–5 cm wide, ranging from white to pink with yellow/orange throat markings
- Stem: Slender woody stems with fine hair-like trichomes on young growth
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; apply organic mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilization
Apply diluted acidic fertilizer once monthly. Use fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants to maintain soil pH balance
Pine needle tea：Steep dried pine needles in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:10 for root drench to support acidic soil requirements; avoid using fresh pine needles to prevent mold growthPruning
- Remove spent flower clusters immediately after blooming to encourage new growth and maintain plant shape
- Thin overcrowded branches in late winter to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim damaged or diseased stems at any time to preserve plant health
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abnormal heart rate, and potential seizures in severe cases
Humans: Contains grayanotoxins; ingestion causes oral irritation, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes native Pacific Northwest biodiversity and delicate floral beauty
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; supports native pollinators including bees and butterflies
