Also known as China-Shrub · Coralberry · Inkberry
Shoebutton (Ardisia elliptica) is an evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy leaves and clusters of pink flowers followed by distinctive, button-like black fruits.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average Room Temperatures
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost; bring indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Monthly During Growing Season
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks from spring to late summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months, but do not let the plant completely dry out. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage bushier growth. Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Remove any suckers that emerge from the base.
Propagate from seeds, which may require stratification, or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining medium.
Seeds can be sown in spring and require warmth and consistent moisture.
Repot young plants annually or every two years in spring as they become root-bound. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently, every 3-4 years.
Use a well-draining potting mix, and choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Shoebutton (Ardisia elliptica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Ardisia |
| Species | Ardisia elliptica |
Similar in genus Ardisia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
