Abutilon x hybridum

Cultivation Details

Abutilon x hybridum is is a hybrid plant of garden origin that can be grown outdoors in the milder regions of the temperate zone. It can tolerate occasional temperatures down to between -5 to -10°c, especially when given the protection of a warm, sunny, sheltered wall, and is probably hardier than either of its parents^{[1, 2]}. Plants are often deciduous in cold winters^[3]. A deep mulch in winter and tying in growth to the wall will maximise protection in winter^[2]. If the plant is cut back by cold weather, it will normally resprout from the base in the spring and can flower on the current year's growth^[4]. Requires a sunny position or part day shade in a fertile well-drained soil^[2]. Dislikes drought^[2]. Plants grow very rapidly for their first few years and need staking if they are not in a sheltered position^[1]. Plants tend to be short-lived in Britain, dying suddenly without any apparent cause. This is probably because they flower so profusely that they die of exhaustion^[1]. Dead-heading plants to prevent seeding can enhance longevity^[2]. Tip-prune young plants to promote a bushy habit, older plants can be cut back hard annually as new growth commences in late winter or early spring if required^[2]. There are many named forms, selected for their ornamental value^{[1, 2]}. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus^[2].