Abutilon Hybridum

Description

Abutilon Hybridum, commonly known as Chinese Lantern or Indian Mallow, is a small shrub that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Brazil and is widely cultivated for its showy, bell-shaped flowers. Abutilon Hybridum grows up to 6 feet in height and 4 feet in width, and it produces large, heart-shaped leaves that are bright green in color.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Abutilon Hybridum produces showy, bell-shaped flowers that are around 2 inches in diameter. The flowers are usually orange or yellow in color, but they can also be pink, red, or white. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall, and each flower lasts for about a day. Abutilon Hybridum also produces large, heart-shaped leaves that are about 4 inches in length. The leaves are bright green in color and have a velvety texture.

Care Guide

Abutilon Hybridum is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it can be grown in containers or in the ground. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:

Water: Abutilon Hybridum prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilization: Abutilon Hybridum should be fertilized regularly during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and potassium.

Soil: Abutilon Hybridum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does not do well in heavy, clay soils.

Sunlight: Abutilon Hybridum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.

Hardiness Zones: Abutilon Hybridum is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. It can be grown as an annual in colder zones.

Common Pests & Diseases

Abutilon Hybridum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of leaves. They suck sap from the plant, which can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves.

Spider mites: These tiny pests can be found on the undersides of leaves. They produce webbing and cause yellowing and stippling of the foliage.

Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can cause leaf drop and stunted growth.

Habitat

Abutilon Hybridum is native to Brazil, but it is now widely cultivated in other parts of the world. It prefers warm, humid climates and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions. Abutilon Hybridum is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Abutilon Hybridum be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Abutilon Hybridum can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.

Q: How often should I fertilize Abutilon Hybridum?

A: Abutilon Hybridum should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and potassium.

Q: How much sunlight does Abutilon Hybridum need?

A: Abutilon Hybridum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.

Q: Does Abutilon Hybridum attract bees or butterflies?

A: Yes, Abutilon Hybridum is a nectar source for bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Abutilon Hybridum:

• Abutilon pictum
• Abutilon megapotamicum
• Abutilon darwinii
• Abutilon x hybridum ‘Souvenir de Bonn’

References

• “Abutilon Hybridum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c133.
• “Abutilon Hybridum.” Plant Care Today. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/abutilon-hybridum-indian-mallow.html.
• “Growing Abutilon – Chinese Lanterns.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/abutilon/growing-abutilon.htm.