PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates urban pollution and moderate dry conditions
Watering
Water deeply when top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once fully established
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; withstands moderate summer heat without significant stress
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small ovate to oblong leaves with serrated margins, dark green turning yellow in autumn
- Flower: Tiny apetalous reddish-purple flowers in clustered racemes
- Stem: Slender, densely branching to form a tight mounded silhouette
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during extended dry spells; avoid waterlogging soil
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive leggy growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per plant over soil surface to boost calcium levels without risk of burning rootsPruning
- Trim lightly in late winter to maintain the natural compact rounded shape
- Remove dead or damaged branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Avoid heavy pruning to preserve the cultivar's characteristic mounded silhouette
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental dwarf shrub for small garden spaces, rock gardens, and container displays
