ABUTILON

This genus belonging to the mallow family is represented in most warm parts of the world, but the majority of its 150 species are from South or Central America; the remainder are mainly from Australia and Africa.Most are shrubs with slender tough_barked  twigs but a few are annuals,perennials, or even small trees.Leaves vary from heart_shaped to jaggedly lobed, their margins toothed in most species: twigs and leaves may be clothed with bristly haris. The common name Chinese lantern alludes to the pretty, pendent, bell-shaped flowers seen in many species; these can appear in shade ranging from white and pale pink to yellow, range, and deep bronzy red.

CULTIVATION

These plants are easily grown in the garden or indoors in pots in a well-lit position. They like well-drained soil of moderate fertility, in light shade or bright sun. In cool climates keep plants indoors until the worst frosts are past, and then plant out for a great summer display. Propagate from tip cuttings in late summer.   

Top Tip                                                                                                 

Prune off leading shotts in late winter if a compact form is desired, but note     that some cultivars display their blooms best on long arching branches.