Abutilon x hybridum (Flowering Maple) is a large shrub native to South America that can reach heights of 5-10 feet tall. It has a natural trellis-like shape with maple-like foliage and drooping, lantern-like blooms in white, yellow, pink or red in spring. This plant is a great magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds, and is easy to care for.
Abutilon x hybridum prefers full sun to semi-shade and regular watering. It should be pruned in early spring and pinched tips to keep bushy. It is hardy in USDA Zones 8-11, and mature plants can endure temperatures in the low 30s F for a short time.
For growing Abutilon x hybridum in a pot in cold regions, it is best to move the pot to a sheltered location during the winter months, as the pot will freeze faster than the ground. Make sure to select a large enough pot with plenty of drainage holes and use a soil that provides good drainage. Be sure to check the soil moisture often, as Abutilon x hybridum will need more water during cold temperatures. If the soil dries out too much, the plant may suffer. When temperatures dip below 30 degrees F, it is best to provide a light layer of mulch to protect the roots.
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