Anisodontea capensis (False mallow)
Botanical name: Anisodontea capensis
Common name: False mallow
Family: Malvaceae
Origin: South Africa
USDA Zone: 7-9
Plant form: Large bush
Mature height: 5-10 ft
Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.
Watering: Regular; moderate
Flower color: Pink
Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirdsAnisodontea capensis, or False Mallow, is a native plant to South Africa, typically with a bushy round shape. It may be either a large shrub 5-10 ft tall, or a smaller slightly smaller shrub reaching 2-5 ft. in height.
False Mallow needs full sun or semi-shade exposure to bloom and look its best, and prefers regular to moderate water. The bright, open-faced flowers start blooming in spring and continue throughout the fall. The pink flowers, 1-2" in diameter, resemble Hibiscus, and attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making it an attractive specimen plant.
False Mallow is drought tolerant once established and isn't fussy about soil. It is best to trim regularly to create a round bushy shape. False Mallow is cold hardy in USDA zones 7-9. In colder regions, it is best to grow False Mallow in a pot and bring inside in winter.
If given the proper care, Anisodontea capensis will reward with its curvesome shape and bright pink flowers. With its beauty and hardiness, False Mallow can be an excellent addition to your garden.
