PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect to partial sun; tolerates full shade but produces fewer flowers; avoid intense midday sun in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C in protected locations; prefers 15–28°C for active growth; protect from prolonged frost in cold regions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, oval to lanceolate, glossy dark green; retains color year-round in mild climates
- Flower: Small, star-shaped white blooms with sweet, jasmine-like fragrance
- Stem: Slender, trailing or climbing stems that root at nodes when in contact with soil
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during heatwaves
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows
Composted coffee grounds tea：Steep fully composted coffee grounds in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 with water before applying as a root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Trim overgrown stems in early spring to maintain a compact, neat groundcover form
- Deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding and improve overall appearance
- Remove yellow or damaged foliage regularly to enhance airflow and reduce disease risk
- Thin dense growth to allow light penetration to lower leaves
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains cardiac glycosides that can disrupt heart function and cause gastrointestinal distress
Humans: Contains cardiac glycosides; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal irritation; sap may irritate sensitive skin
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Groundcover for slopes or garden edges; trailing indoor planter; erosion control in landscape beds
