PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; produces the most blooms in full sun, but tolerates moderate shade
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once fully established
Temperature
Hardy to -30°C; withstands hot summer temperatures with consistent soil moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, ovate to elliptical, serrated margins, dark green foliage turning reddish-purple in fall
- Flower: Flat-topped cymes of small, creamy-white, faintly fragrant blooms
- Fruit: Blue-black drupes ripen in late summer, providing food for native birds
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering rather than excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tbsp per plant around the base and work lightly into the top 2 cm of soilPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to early spring
- Thin overcrowded stems to improve airflow and light penetration
- Shape lightly after flowering to maintain a rounded form; avoid heavy pruning that reduces next year's bloom production
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no risk of poisoning for cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; provides food and shelter for native birds
