Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Abutilon 'Nabob'

Abutilon 'Nabob' | Red Flowering Maple, Giant Red Chinese Lantern

This floriferous abutilon is the result of hybridizing two Brazilian species of Abutilon (A. darwinii and A. striatum). This is a fast growing upright plant up to 2-3m (8-10 ft), but can be keep smaller by pruning. It has large very dark green foliage and produces 7.5cm (3 in) wide bell shaped flowers that are a deep crimson color. As with other Abutilon, beware of pest problems, such as white fly, and trim out lanky stems and tip back plants in the spring to keep manageable. This is a good plant for attracting hummingbirds. Abutilon 'Nabob' received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit in 1993.