PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial to full sun; tolerates light shade, but full sun exposure enhances winter flowering and autumn foliage color
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool to temperate climates, avoid prolonged heat above 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval to lanceolate, dark green foliage turning reddish-purple in autumn
- Flower: Dense clusters of small tubular blooms, pale pink fading to white, with intense sweet scent
- Stem: Slender gray-brown branches with smooth, thin bark
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once. Use fertilizer with equal N-P-K ratios to support foliage and flowering
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tbsp around the plant base and gently work into topsoil to avoid root disturbancePruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to maintain a rounded shape and remove spent blooms
- Trim dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to improve airflow
- Thin overcrowded inner growth to enhance light penetration and flowering potential
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified 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 shrub for winter fragrance, hedging, or specimen garden planting
