PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun; intense sunlight enhances foliage crimson color, tolerates light shade in hot climates
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C, withstands hot summer temperatures with well-drained soil; avoid prolonged standing water in cold weather
Characteristics
- Leaf: Fleshy, rounded, bronze-crimson year-round, deepening to burgundy in cold weather
- Flower: Star-shaped, bright pink blooms clustered in flat-topped terminal inflorescences
- Stem: Trailing, rooting at nodes to form continuous, low-growing mats
Care Guide
Watering
Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; reduce frequency during rainy periods
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote compact growth and vibrant foliage
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Trim back leggy stems in early spring to encourage dense, compact growth
- Remove spent flower heads after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance
- Thin overcrowded mats every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens, green roofs, container edges, and slope stabilization
