PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun exposure for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to mild frost; thrives in warm, arid to semi-arid temperature conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Silvery-gray, oblong to lanceolate leaves covered in dense, stellate hairs
- Flower: Purple, five-petaled, star-shaped blooms with yellow stamens
- Fruit: Round, yellow to orange berries at maturity; green when unripe
Care Guide
Watering
Water every 7–10 days during active growth; ensure soil dries fully between waterings
Fertilization
Diluted, low-nitrogen liquid feed once monthly. Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer to support growth without promoting excessive foliage over blooms
Composted eggshell powder：Mix 1 tablespoon of fully dried, ground eggshell powder into the top 2 cm of soil every 2 months to boost soil calcium levels; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent burnPruning
- Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring to encourage new, healthy growth
- Thin overcrowded branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Cut back spent flower heads to prevent unwanted self-seeding in managed garden spaces
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains solanine that may cause gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms
Humans: Contains solanine; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: N/A
