PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in sunny locations with minimal afternoon shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Prefers cool to temperate temperatures; tolerates light frost but may wilt in extreme heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Round, peltate blue-green leaves with long petioles, resembling miniature lily pads
- Flower: Bright scarlet, funnel-shaped blooms with spurred nectaries and five distinct petals
- Stem: Succulent, fleshy trailing or upright stems with a smooth texture
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; reduce frequency during prolonged heatwaves
Fertilization
No regular fertilization needed; avoid high-nitrogen feeds. Poor soil encourages more abundant blooms than lush foliage growth
Eggshell powder top dressing：Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshells around the base to add calcium without overfeeding the plantPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Trim overgrown trailing stems to maintain a compact, tidy shape
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no known adverse effects from ingestion
Humans: Non-toxic; leaves and flowers have a peppery, edible flavor
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes patriotism and courage; often used in cottage garden designs for its cheerful blooms
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; edible flowers and leaves add a peppery, watercress-like flavor to salads and garnishes
