Though their leaves appear maple-like, abutilons aren’t even closely related to maple trees.
When growing, keep in mind that some abutilons may be toxic to people.
Soil
Grow abutilons in well-draining soil that has been enriched withcompost.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
These plants struggle with prolonged dry periods, but they also dont want to sit in wet soil.
Thesoil pHshould be in the neutral range, but more importantly, it needs to be well-draining.
Water
Abutilon plants have average water needs.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Temperature and Humidity
Abutilons prefer warm temperatures and do not tolerate frost.
Temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal.
These prefer average humidity levels but aren’t picky.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Fertilizer
Abutilon can be heavy feeders, probably because they do so much blooming.
This is especially true when they are grown in containers.
Feeding every other week with a diluted, water-soluble fertilizer will help keep them blooming.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Tip prune young plants, to spur new growth and get a fuller shape.
Abutilons also respond well to hard prune in spring if you want to control their size further.
Propagating
Abutilons are most commonly propagated by cuttings.
For this reason, it’s critical to use a well-draining mix to avoid root rot.
A terra-cotta or clay pot can also help, as these materials wick extra moisture from the soil.
Your cue is when you hear about a frost advisory.
In perennial zones 9 and 10, no additional overwintering care is needed.
Grow it in a relatively cool room in your house.
You should also cut back on watering at this time.
Use a moisture meter to confirm the soil is dry before watering.
Scout for problems while watering.
Regarding disease, root rot,rust, and leaf spot can be problems for abutilons.
How to Get Abutilon to Bloom
Abutilons are prized for their flowers.
With enough light and proper care, these plants can stay in constant bloom.
Bloom Months
Abutilon plants are serious bloomers.
What Do Abutilon Flowers Look and Smell Like?
These long-blooming plants bear cup- or bell-shaped flowers that are approximately three inches across.
The flowers lack any notable fragrance.
These plants are also heavy feeders, so don’t skimp on the fertilizer.
And lastly, deadhead spent flowers, which can inspire the plant to produce more.
double-check your plant is getting enough nutrients to make it grow properly, especially after pruning.
Some abutilons spread and vine more than others, in which case a trellis is warranted.
Yes, abutilon cuttings will root in water.
If propagating by cuttings, you might root the cuttings in water before placing them in soil.
Unlike other viruses, this virus is one that growers actually want.
If you really want an abutilon with this virus, you may be better off simply purchasing one.
North Carolina State Extension.
Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California.
