PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of intense arid-region sunlight
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to freezing winters; withstands high summer heat in dry climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, gray-green, densely fuzzy oval leaves with finely serrated margins
- Flower: Cup-shaped orange to peach-pink blooms (2–3 cm wide) in terminal racemes
- Stem: Erect, hairy stems branching from a woody basal crown
Care Guide
Watering
Water every 7–10 days during active growth; avoid overwatering
Fertilization
Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshells around the base; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent burnPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage prolonged flowering
- Cut back stems to 10 cm in late winter to promote dense new spring growth
- Remove damaged or diseased foliage to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience in arid, low-water landscapes
Usage: Ornamental xeric garden plant; supports native pollinators including bees and butterflies
