A semi-evergreen shrub that has arching branches with three-lobed, triangular to ovate leaves. Due to the arching nature of this plant it usually looks at it’s best trained against a wall, up a trellis or into standards. Although one of the hardiest Abutilons and will usually survive most winters outside in milder parts of the UK the warmth of a warm wall will give it that added protection to get through the cold spells.

The bell shaped (almost Chinese lantern like) flowers can be produced throughout much of the year, often well into late winter if protected from frosts. They have orange-yellow, papery looking petals emerging from a dark red outer calyx. Although pruning is not often required a clip in late spring will create bushier, more compact growth and heavier blooming. During the growing season a regular feed, about once every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser will produce the best plants.

Ideally position in full sun (although it will tolerate part shade), planting in a sheltered spot with a well drained, loamy to sandy soil. Water regularly during hot periods. Maximum height is around 2.5 meters with a similar spread but can be kept smaller with pruning. Although a sub-tropical plant it works just as well in a cottage style garden as it does in a tropical planting. If growing in a container plant in a loam soil with additional drainage such as sharp sand or horticultural grit and keep well watered in the summer months.

Sent in a 2ltr pot.

Additional photo By Paul Smith - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7744518