Turks Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)

12/11/2012

Malvaviscus arboreus Cav. 1787, commonly called Turks Cap Turks Turban, Amapola, Wax Mallow, Quesillo, Ladies Teardrop, Sleeping Hibiscus or Scotchman’s Purse, is a tropical, woody shrub, native to South-East USA, Central- and South America.


The Hibiscus-like Turks Cap belongs to the Malvaceae family and is a close relative to Hibiscus. Malvaviscus arboreus plants reach heights of about 2 meters and are often trimmed to hedges. As the cute, red flowers never open completely, the plant got the name Scotsman’s purse or Sleeping Hibiscus. Flowers get a size of about 4,5 cm and due to their sweet nectar, they are attractive to bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and children as well. Flowering period: Spring - Autumn. The Turks Cap is best grown in full sun to partial shade and is considered as an easy to care plant. There are several varieties of Malvaviscus arboreus, with hanging or erect flowers and colors from white, pale pink to bright red.



Turks Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)
Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Turks Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)

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