PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun; thrives in open, sunny wild habitats and rock gardens
Watering
Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries out; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Tolerates cool spring temperatures down to 5°C; avoid prolonged heat above 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow linear gray-green leaves, sessile, arranged oppositely along stems
- Flower: Pink to pale purple five-petaled blooms with deeply notched petals
- Calyx: Distinctive inflated cone-shaped calyx with prominent green to purplish veins
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly to keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Light diluted feed once monthly during active growth. Use a balanced, low-strength fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainagePruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering through early summer
- Remove yellowing lower foliage to improve airflow and maintain plant appearance
- Cut back the entire plant after seed set to allow self-sowing for the next growing season
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental wildflower for rock gardens; erosion control in sandy coastal areas
