Flowering Maple (Abutilon hybridum)

Plant Type: Shrub

Small shrub easily held to a small size by pruning. Does well as a basket plant.

Origin: Man Made Hybrid

Environment: Suitable for the home or a greenhouse

Flowering: Yes

Fragrant: No

Growing Ease: Requires a little extra care

Temperature: 60-85°F, 16-29°C

Humidity: Medium humidity

Lighting Needs: Does best in bright indirect sunlight coming from the South/West

Soil Type: A good general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take: 1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime. Always use a pot with a hole.

Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist and if you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water.

Fertilizer: Feed every two weeks with a water soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter. An alternative is a granular slow release fertilizer if applied annually in the early spring.