PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial to full shade; tolerates dappled sunlight, avoid intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; prefers cool to temperate conditions, protect from prolonged temperatures above 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Leathery, elliptical leaves with glossy dark green upper surfaces and pale green undersides, arranged oppositely along stems.
- Flower: Small, creamy-white, fragrant star-shaped flowers borne singly in leaf axils.
- Fruit: Round, black, fleshy berries that mature in late autumn, containing 1–2 seeds.
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Apply balanced diluted liquid fertilizer once monthly. Avoid fertilizing in autumn and winter when growth slows
Composted coffee grounds tea：Use fully composted coffee grounds diluted 1:30 with water for root drenching; avoid raw grounds to prevent soil acidity spikesPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in early spring before new growth emerges
- Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Shape lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, rounded form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shrub for foundation plantings, hedges, or shaded garden borders
