Chinese Lantern (Abutilon striatum)
The stunning flowering plant known as Chinese Lantern or Flowering Maple (Abutilon) is distinguished by its lantern-shaped blooms and maple-like foliage. Beautiful for gardens, balconiesand indoor areas, the flowers come in red, orange, yellow, pink, or cream hues. With careful attention, it can be maintained in pots or grown as a shrub.
Overview for Abutilon striatum :
Scientific name: Abutilon striatum
Common name: Chinese Lantern, Flowering Maple, Redvein Abutilon,
Plant type: Perennial shrub, Semi-evergreen shrub
Sun requires: Full Sunlight or partial shade
Blooming time: Spring through autumn
Soil: Well-drained soil
Soil pH: 5.5 and 6.5
Hardiness Zone: 8-11
Growing conditions and care for Abutilon striatum :
About the Plant
Flowering maple (Abutilon), also known as Chinese Lantern, is a fast-growing evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub known for its maple-like leaves and drooping lantern-like flowers. Chinese Lanterns typically grow from about 3 to 8 feet tall, depending on the species and growing conditions. The plant comes in yellow, orange, red, and white colors and blooms for a long time. Flowers year-round in warmer areas, and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Climate and Sunlight
Flowering maple grows best in warm, mild climates. Although it prefers bright sunlightprotect it from the harsh afternoon sun. Choose a location where the plant receives morning sun and light shade during the hot afternoon. If growing indoors, place it near a bright window.
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives in loose, rich, and well-drained soil. A mixture of garden soil, high organic matter, and sand is ideal. Keep the soil moist, but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Watering
Water the Chinese lantern plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as wet soil can damage the roots. More water is required during active growth or in summer, and the amount of water in autumn and winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize your Chinese lantern plant regularly during its growing season. Provide it with a balanced liquid fertilizer or flowering fertilizer every 3-4 weeks. Regular fertilization helps promote healthy plant growth and abundant flowering. You can also use a 10-10 NPK pack ratio.
Pruning
Although this plant does not require excessive pruningit is necessary to maintain proper shape and ensure regular flowering. Cut off faded flowers and weak or dead branches. Regularly removing dead or damaged parts helps keep the plant healthy.
Pests and Diseases
These plants are affected by common pests like spider mites, aphidsand whiteflies, and sap-sucking insects like spider scale. When growing them indoors or in a greenhouse, monitor them regularly. If infected, use neem oil or a mild insecticidal soap. Proper ventilation can help prevent fungal diseases. Water from the base and in appropriate amounts to prevent problems like root rot or leaf spot.
Conclusion
Chinese lanterns thrive in adequate sunlight, regular watering, pruning, and occasional pruning. Ideal for pots and sun-protected borders, they add color and charm to the garden. This plant blooms beautifully with good drainage and minimal care.
Happy gardening!
Read also:
Hardy Gloxinia plant, Seemannia sylvatica ‘Bolivian Sunset’ care. Barleria cristata (Philippine violet ) shrub care. Jatropha plant (Jatropha curcas), Peregrina plant care. Gold Shower Shrub Growing tips. Firebush plant attracts Hummingbirds.
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