PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, sunny open sites
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only when top 5–7 cm of soil is fully dry
Temperature
Hardy to cool temperate climates; tolerates light spring and autumn frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow lanceolate leaves, opposite arrangement, smooth margins, pale green
- Flower: Small pink to white five-petaled blooms, clustered at stem forks
- Stem: Slender, branching stems with sticky glandular hairs near flower clusters
Care Guide
Watering
Water sparingly during extended dry spells; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Fertilization
No regular fertilization required; avoid nutrient-rich soil. Excess nutrients may reduce flowering and encourage leggy growth
Crushed eggshell powder：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder and sprinkle lightly on soil surface; avoid overapplication to prevent pH imbalancePruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering period
- Remove senescent stems after seed set to control self-seeding if desired
- Thin overcrowded seedlings in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: Not listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Wildflower garden ornamental; supports native pollinators like bees and butterflies
