PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, disturbed urban or wild soils
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperate to subtropical conditions; avoid frost exposure
Characteristics
- Leaf: Simple, ovate to lanceolate, with serrated margins and gray-green pubescent surfaces
- Flower: Small white star-shaped blooms in terminal clusters; yellow central stamens
- Fruit: Round green berries ripening to black, containing toxic alkaloids
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly to support active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Discontinue fertilization in autumn to prepare for dormancy
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface, avoiding direct contact with stems to prevent rotPruning
- Remove spent flower clusters to limit self-seeding in managed garden spaces
- Trim back leggy stems in early spring to encourage bushier, more compact growth
- Clear dead or yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce pest habitat
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to solanine alkaloids; may cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological distress
Humans: Ingestion of berries or leaves causes gastrointestinal irritation and mild neurological symptoms
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Limited ornamental use due to toxicity; occasionally found in wildflower restorations
