ABUTILON megapotamicum

Evergreen - to semi evergreen. Lance-shaped to ovate, bright-green leaves to 12cm (5in) long, sometimes shallowly-lobed, and heart-shaped at the bases.

Red

Striped, Veined or Multicoloured

Yellow - yellow and crimson

Height - 2m (6½ft)

Spread - 2m (6½ft)

Medium shrub - Typically grow to around 4-6 feet in height - slender, arching shoots. Produces pendent flowers with purple stamens protruding from red calyces along the young shoots

Half hardy - unheated greenhouse / mild winter - Hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK except in severe winters and a risk from sudden (early) frosts. May be hardy elsewhere with wall shelter or good micro-climate. Likely to be damaged or killed in cold winters. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -5°C (23°F)

Full sun

Partial shade

Additional Features - Pests & Diseases - whiteflies, red spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects (particularly in greenhouse).

Place of origin - Brazil.

Resistant to honey fungus - These plants have little or few problems with honey fungus.

Flower Shape - Bell/Lantern - to 4cm (1½in) long

Hardiness - Frost hardy (down to -5) -

Seasonal Interest - Autumn

Spring

Summer

Soil Conditions - Fertile well drained soil

Neutral to acid soil