PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates hot, dry conditions once established; avoid prolonged deep shade
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once fully rooted to reduce water waste
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zone 5; tolerates mild winter frost and summer heat up to 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Ovate to lanceolate leaves, softly hairy, with serrated margins and gray-green foliage
- Flower: Tiny lilac to pale violet blooms arranged in dense, stacked whorls along upright stems
- Stem: Square, hairy stems typical of the mint family, branching near the top
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during active growth to support blooming; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent leggy growth and reduced blooming
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to promote abundant flowering without chemical inputsPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period
- Cut back stems to basal growth in late autumn to encourage vigorous spring regrowth
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known toxic compounds
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no reported adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; critical nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
