Contents
Description
Malvaviscus Arboreus, commonly known as the Turk’s Cap or Wax Mallow, is a shrub native to the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. It belongs to the Malvaceae family.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malvaviscus |
Appearance
The Turk’s Cap has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 6-10 feet tall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a serrated edge. The flowers are red and shaped like a small turban or cap, hence the name. The flowers bloom from spring to fall and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Turk’s Cap needs well-draining soil and regular watering. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. Fertilize in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Turk’s Cap is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Habitat
The Turk’s Cap is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and disturbed areas. It can tolerate a range of soil types and moisture conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Turk’s Cap be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Turk’s Cap can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: How often should the Turk’s Cap be fertilized?
A: The Turk’s Cap should be fertilized in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best way to propagate the Turk’s Cap?
A: The Turk’s Cap can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: Is the Turk’s Cap poisonous to humans or pets?
A: No, the Turk’s Cap is not poisonous to humans or pets.
Related Plants
- Malvaviscus Penduliflorus
- Malvaviscus Conzattii
- Malvaviscus Arboreus var. Drummondii
References
- “Malvaviscus Arboreus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282899&isprofile=0&basic=malvaviscus%20arboreus.
- “Turk’s Cap.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/archives/parsons/publications/landscape_plants/malvaviscus.html.
- “Malvaviscus Arboreus.” Floridata. https://floridata.com/tracks/bigpicture/Malv/malvaviscus_arboreus.html.
