PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates light woodland shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to extreme cold; withstands summer heat up to 35°C with adequate moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound leaves with serrated, dark green leaflets; basal rosettes persist in winter
- Flower: Dense, cylindrical terminal spikes; deep red to burgundy tiny flowers
- Stem: Erect, smooth green stems branching near the top
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Apply balanced compost once at planting. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent leggy, floppy growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per plant around base; water in lightly to release nutrients without causing soil alkalinity spikesPruning
- Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage prolonged blooming
- Cut back foliage to ground level in late autumn after frost
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to improve airflow
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Medicinal herb historically used for wound healing; ornamental garden plant for meadow and border plantings
