Abatia Parviflora

Description

Abatia Parviflora, also known as the small-flowered abatia, is a species of flowering plant native to Central and South America. This evergreen shrub belongs to the Malvaceae family and can grow up to 6 feet tall. It has small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Abatia Parviflora has glossy, dark green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The small, white or pink flowers have 5 petals and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant produces small, brown fruit that contain black seeds. It has a bushy, rounded shape and can be used as a hedge or specimen plant.

Care Guide

Water: Abatia Parviflora prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to encourage growth and flowering.

Soil: Plant Abatia Parviflora in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.

Hardiness Zones: Abatia Parviflora is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Abatia Parviflora is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew may also occur in humid conditions. This can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Abatia Parviflora is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate some shade.

Question and Answer

Q. Can Abatia Parviflora be grown in a container?
A. Yes, Abatia Parviflora can be grown in a container. Use a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and fill it with well-draining soil. Water regularly and fertilize during the growing season.

Q. How often should Abatia Parviflora be pruned?
A. Abatia Parviflora can be pruned in the early spring to shape the plant or remove any dead or damaged branches.

Q. Does Abatia Parviflora attract bees or butterflies?
A. Yes, Abatia Parviflora is attractive to bees and butterflies, which pollinate the flowers.

Q. Can Abatia Parviflora be propagated from cuttings?
A. Yes, Abatia Parviflora can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide some shade until the cuttings have rooted.

Related Plants

• Abatia Magnoliifolia
• Abatia Oblonga
• Abatia Paradoxa
• Abatia Pandurata

References

• “Abatia Parviflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281844&isprofile=0&cv=5
• “Abatia Parviflora.” PlantFiles. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/109566/
• “Abatia Parviflora.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP618