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Description
Abutilon Hirtum, also known as hairy Indian mallow, is a shrub native to the Indian subcontinent. It belongs to the Malvaceae family and is often cultivated for its ornamental value. The plant can grow up to 4 meters tall and has a spread of 3 meters. The leaves are heart-shaped and velvety, with serrated edges. The flowers are bell-shaped and come in a range of colors, including yellow, red, and orange.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Abutilon |
Appearance
Abutilon Hirtum is a deciduous shrub that can reach up to 4 meters in height. The leaves are heart-shaped and velvety, with serrated edges. They can grow up to 15cm long and 10cm wide. The flowers are bell-shaped and come in a range of colors, including yellow, red, and orange. They bloom in the summer and fall, and each flower can grow up to 4cm in diameter. The plant produces a fruit that is a round capsule, about 2cm in diameter, containing several seeds.
Care Guide
Abutilon Hirtum is a relatively easy plant to care for. It requires moderate watering and should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. The plant should be grown in well-draining soil and placed in an area with full to partial sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Abutilon Hirtum is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and not overwatered.
Habitat
Abutilon Hirtum is native to the Indian subcontinent and can be found growing in a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and scrublands. It is often cultivated for its ornamental value and can be found in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Abutilon Hirtum a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Abutilon Hirtum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What is the best way to control pests on Abutilon Hirtum?
A: Pests on Abutilon Hirtum can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and neem oil.
Q: What is the blooming season for Abutilon Hirtum?
A: Abutilon Hirtum blooms in the summer and fall.
Q: Can Abutilon Hirtum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Abutilon Hirtum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Related Plants
- Abutilon megapotamicum
- Abutilon pictum
- Abutilon theophrasti
References
- “Abutilon Hirtum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=268336.
- “Abutilon Hirtum.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/abutilonhurt.htm.
- “Abutilon Hirtum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/147191/i-Abutilon-hirtum-i/Details.
