Malvaviscus arboreus

Common Names

Wax Mallow, Turk's Cap, Scotchman's Purse, Sleeping Hibiscus, Sleepy Mallow, Ladies Teardrop, Red Mallow, Turk's Turban

Summary

Malvaviscus arboreus, commonly known as wax mallow or Turk’s cap, is a flowering shrub native to the Southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America. It typically grows 3–4 feet tall with a similar spread, though under favorable conditions it can reach 8–10 feet; in warm climates it is evergreen, while in cooler areas it may die back and resprout. Distinctive features include bright scarlet tubular flowers 1–2 inches long that appear at leaf axils and resemble unopened hibiscus, and heart-shaped to ovate leaves 3–6 inches long; flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, followed by small red fruits.

Cultivation is straightforward: full sun to partial shade with well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, clay, and limestone soils and is drought tolerant once established. Hardy in zones 7–12, it can be evergreen in warm areas and may require protection in cooler climates. Propagation is by seeds or stem cuttings; pruning keeps size in check and can encourage flowering. Uses include ornamentally in landscapes and under-story plantings, with attractiveness to pollinators and edible red fruit; pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies may occur, and powdery mildew is a potential disease risk.

Lifecycle

Perennial, may be grown as an annual in cooler zones

Height

3-10 feet

Spread

8-10 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 7-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun, tolerates Partial Sun or Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained soil, tolerant of sandy, loamy, clay, and limestone soils.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.0-7.5, Neutral to slightly acidic soil

Bloom Color

Red (most common); pink or white blooms.

Bloom Time

Year-round

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage color

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Bees: Yes, Hummingbirds: Yes, Butterflies: Yes, Other pollinators: Yes, Birds: Yes