PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, direct sunlight for most of the day; tolerates light shade in hot summer climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; tolerates moderate summer heat up to 30°C; requires cool winter temperatures for dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Silvery-grey, woolly, lanceolate to ovate leaves forming dense basal rosettes
- Flower: Bright magenta to pink five-petaled blooms in loose terminal clusters
- Stem: Erect, woolly stems with sparse leaves, branching near the top
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth and reduced flowering
Eggshell powder topdressing：Grind dried eggshells to a fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface and water in to release calcium gradually without causing nutrient buildupPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage prolonged flowering through mid-summer
- Cut back stems to basal rosettes after flowering to promote new foliage growth for the following season
- Remove damaged or yellowing foliage to maintain plant health and improve airflow
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects for cats
Humans: No known toxic effects for humans; safe for handling and ingestion in small amounts
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes devotion and remembrance in some European cottage garden folklore
Usage: Ornamental border plant; cut flower for fresh bouquets; drought-tolerant ground cover in sunny sites
