Noted for its maple-like leaves, the beautiful yellow flowering maple or Abutilon hybridum is not really a maple at all.
This broadleaf evergreen is in the Abutilon genus that includes more than 100 species of beautiful flowering shrubs.
The Abutilon is a member of the Malvaceae family that also includes mallows, hibiscus and hollyhocks. The shape of the drooping papery bell-shaped flowers gave rise to its other common names — Chinese bell flower, Chinese lantern, mallow and Indian mallow.
Native to the Americas, from Mexico to Brazil, this striking plant with its large dark green foliage and almost year-round displays of elegant yellow flowers can make a handsome, showy addition to Japanese-style gardens, borders, espaliers, courtyards, atriums, patio plantings, foundation plantings or specimen plantings as well as container plantings for patios, porches and decks.
This fast-growing plant needs plenty of bright light to bloom. In Redlands, plant it in partial sun.
Use a peat moss-based potting mix and lightly fertilize from spring through fall. Once established, the Abutilon is somewhat drought-tolerant. However, follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to help develop its root system. Water thoroughly, then allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Prune your Abutilon regularly in early spring to help control its shape and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. It responds well to pruning, so don’t be afraid to really cut it back in spring, removing up to a third of the plant. Also, pinching off growing tips promotes a fuller plant and more blooms.
Hummingbirds love the Abutilon and so do snails.
Propagation is easy. Make 4-inch stem-tip cuttings in spring, while pruning. Dip the cut ends in rooting powder and plant the cuttings in moist soil. Soon you will have more graceful arching stems to add to your garden.
For information, call 909-798-9384.
Source: Joyce Dean, a member of the Redlands Horticultural and Improvement Society
