PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun to partial shade; at least 6 hours direct sunlight weekly for optimal blooming
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Cold-hardy to -20°C; tolerates warm summer temperatures up to 30°C with adequate moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, dark matte green foliage, 5–10 cm long, turning yellow in autumn
- Flower: Dense panicles of double ruffled pink blooms with intense sweet fragrance
- Stem: Slender woody stems with light brown, slightly peeling mature bark
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during bloom period; reduce watering after flowering concludes
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer before new growth emerges. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that prioritize leaf growth over blooms
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 4 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water, and apply as a root drench to promote bloom developmentPruning
- Deadhead spent flower panicles immediately after blooming to encourage robust growth and blooms the following year
- Thin crowded, crossing branches in late winter to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Remove damaged, diseased, or broken stems at any time to maintain plant health
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and proximity
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes love, remembrance, and spring renewal in Western horticultural traditions
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; cut flower for floral arrangements
