Family: Malvaceae

Native to Central and South America, these evergreen shrubs, which are sometimes vine-like in habit, are grown for their beautiful, red, hibiscus-like flowers which may be solitary or borne in terminal clusters. Sometimes the leaves are divided into palm shapes.

Species

M. arboreus is an evergreen, rounded shrub, to 3 m (10 ft) high, with bright green, soft-haired, oval lobed leaves, with toothed margins. The solitary, red, erect flowers have protruding stamens. M. arboreus var. mexicanus, Turk's cap or cardinal's hat plant, grows 2-3 m (6-10 ft) high and produces scarlet, trumpet-shaped flowers resembling a partly opened hibiscus, over many months.

Cultivation

Where frosts occur, grow in an intermediate to warm greenhouse in pots of soil-based potting compost. Although the plants need good light, they should be shaded from direct sun. Outdoors, in suitable climates, grow in any well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shady spot. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a good shape. Propagate from seed in spring or semi-ripe cuttings in summer, with bottom heat for both.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 9 and above.