PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; produces the most abundant blooms in full sun, but tolerates moderate shade
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; tolerates summer temperatures up to 30°C with consistent moisture during dry spells
Characteristics
- Leaf: Ovate, soft downy leaves with serrated margins; pale gray-green foliage that turns bronze in autumn
- Flower: Dense, flat-topped cymes of creamy white, lightly fragrant blooms
- Fruit: Clusters of small red berries ripening to glossy black in late autumn
- Stem: Gray-brown young stems covered in fine down; mature stems have smooth, peeling bark
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during prolonged dry periods to support bloom and fruit development
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer to support new growth and blooms. Skip fertilization in autumn and winter to allow natural dormancy
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to add potassium without risking root burnPruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to maintain a rounded shape and remove dead or damaged branches
- Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Remove suckers at the base to prevent unwanted spread and preserve the shrub's form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental hedge plant; wildlife garden species (berries feed birds; blooms support pollinators)
