Corynabutilon × suntense
Indian mallow syn. Abutilon × suntense
This shrub is semi-evergreen, so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new foliage appears again in spring.
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, freely draining
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: June to October
- Hardiness: half hardy (will need protection in winter)
Abutilon x suntenseis a vigorous, soft-wood shrub with downy, vine-like leaves originating from Chile. Large petalled, saucer-shaped mauve flowers with prominent bosses of orange stamens appear from mid to late summer. It's ideal growing against a south-facing wall or fence and can also be grown in a large pot and overwintered in a conservatory or frost-free greenhouse. - Garden care: Lightly trim back shoots that spoil the symmetry in mid- or late spring. Water freely during the summer months, but keep drier and protect from low temperatures in winter.