PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers dappled woodland shade; tolerates full sun in cool temperate regions with consistent soil moisture
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy, surviving temperatures as low as -30°C; adapts to warm summer conditions up to 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite trifoliate compound leaves with serrated margins; bright green foliage turning pale yellow in autumn
- Flower: Drooping clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped white to pale pink blooms
- Fruit: Inflated papery bladder-like pods that mature in late summer, containing shiny black seeds
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth and flowering
Fertilization
Apply a thin layer of compost or diluted organic feed once. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering
Composted banana peel tea：Steep 2–3 fully composted banana peels in 4L of water for 24 hours; dilute the mixture 1:10 before drenching the root zone to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
- Thin dense inner growth to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Shape lightly in late winter to maintain a compact, rounded form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental woodland shrub; dried papery seed pods used in floral arrangements
