Palmer's indian mallow - Abutilon palmeri (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Palmer's indian mallow

Abutilon palmeri is a semi-evergreen shrub growing 91 to 244 cm high by 61 to 152 cm wide. The branch and stem coloration is green to reddish brown and pubescent. The alternate leaves are velvety and heart-shaped (nearly round to cordate). The leaves are serrate and densely woolly, giving a bluish, grey-green cast to the foliage.

Scientific classification

Species

Palmer's indian mallow (Abutilon palmeri)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

Yellow, Orange

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Palmer's indian mallow

Distribution of Palmer's indian mallow

Distribution Map

Palmer's indian mallow is indigenous to the arid regions of North America, perfectly adapted to survive in its native desert habitats. Over time, the species has been introduced to various other arid and semi-arid regions across the globe, where it thrives in similar climatic conditions, albeit it's not widespread beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Desert habitats

Quickly Identify Palmer's indian mallow

Dense growth of soft, silvery heart-shaped leaves with velvety texture.

Persistent gold to apricot cupped flowers, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across.

Fuzzy sepals enveloping developing fruit after flowering.

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Care Guide for Palmer's indian mallow

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Palmer's indian mallow is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, ideally once every 1-2 weeks to prevent root rot. Thriving outdoors, it benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture, further reducing irrigation needs while supporting its low-maintenance growth.

Fertilize: Palmer's indian mallow requires monthly fertilization with a balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizer to enhance growth and flowering. Apply sparingly, especially during the dormant season, and increase frequency in the growing season. Use slow-release formulas and always water after application to improve nutrient absorption and prevent root burn.

Pruning: Palmer's indian mallow features velvety leaves and bright yellow flowers. Prune in early to late winter to enhance shape and growth by removing dead branches and thinning. Clean cuts prevent disease, while avoiding heavy pruning reduces stress. This promotes vigorous flowering and maintains manageable size.

Propagation: Palmer's indian mallow thrives in warm, arid conditions and can be propagated using semi-ripe stem cuttings planted in well-draining potting mix. Keep cuttings moist and in indirect light until rooted. Once established, palmer's indian mallow requires minimal maintenance to thrive.

Repotting: Repot palmer's indian mallow every 2-3 years in spring to support its rapid growth. Use a pot one size larger, ensure full sun and moderate watering post-repotting. Palmer's indian mallow thrives in well-draining soil; avoid oversized pots to prevent excess water retention.

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