2-3 Litre Pot
- Position: Full sun, partial shade
- Soil: Well drained
- Growth Rate: Average
- Flowering Period: Spring – Autumn
- Hardiness: H2
- Eventual Height: 0.5 – 1m
- Eventual Spread: 0.5 – 1m
Abutilon Russels Dwarf, also known as ‘Flowering Maple’, is a compact and upright evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub that is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens, borders, and containers. It is a member of the Malvaceae family and is native to South America.
The plant typically grows up to 1 metre tall and wide, with a dense and rounded habit. Its leaves are medium-sized, heart-shaped, and deeply veined, with a soft and velvety texture. The foliage is green, but some cultivars may have variegated or reddish leaves.
One of the main features of this variety is its showy and vibrant flowers, which appear from late Spring to Autumn. The flowers are bell-shaped, about 5cm in diameter, and hang from slender stalks and are crimson to orange red.
This is a relatively low-maintenance plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is generally pest-resistant and can tolerate moderate drought and heat. Pruning can be done in the spring to shape the plant or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Overall, this is a charming and versatile plant that adds colour and texture to any garden or landscape. Its compact size and hardiness make it a great choice for small gardens, containers, or mixed borders.
How to care for your Abutilon Russels Dwarf
- Watering: Prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertiliser once a month during the growing season. This will promote healthy growth and blooming. You can also add organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to the soil to enrich it.
- Pruning: Prune the plant in early Spring to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant to your desired size and form. Pinching off the tips of the stems can encourage bushier growth and more blooming.
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. If the plant is grown in a hot and dry climate, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
- Winter Care: It will need protection in the frost. You can mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots from freezing. Alternatively, you can grow the plant in a container and move it indoors to a cool and bright location during the Winter.
By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Abutilon Russels Dwarf in your garden for many years to come.