African mallows (Anisodontea)

African mallows

Also known as: Cape mallows

Members of african mallows typically bear toothed leaves with three or five palmate, uneven lobes. Members of the genus also typically bear flowers with a pubescent calyx, a five-petaled corolla streaked from the center and pink to magenta in color, and stamens with anthers of a dark color. It comprises twenty-one species native to South Africa.

Scientific classification

Genus

African mallows (Anisodontea)

Family

Mallow

Order

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

91 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 1.8 m

Spread

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Images of African mallows

Species

African mallow African mallow African mallow 'El Rayo'

Quickly Identify African mallows

Palmately lobed leaves with uneven teeth along edges.

Small flowers with hues from pink to purple, resembling hibiscus.

Flowers have pale pink petals fading to mauve with dark veining.

Leaves are 3-lobed, up to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) long with palmate veins.

Upright, heavily branched stems with color change from green to greyish-brown and bristly texture.

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Care Guide for African mallows

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: African mallows requires watering once every 2-3 weeks, thriving in drier conditions due to its origin in arid regions. It prefers full sun and is evergreen, shedding less water in cooler months when evapotranspiration decreases, ensuring soil dries out between waterings.

Propagation: African mallows propagation can be achieved through seed sowing or softwood cuttings. Successful methods include ensuring adequate light, warmth, and well-draining soil. For cuttings, use a 10-15 cm (4-6 inch) stem, apply rooting hormone, and maintain moisture until roots develop.

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Learn More About African mallows

How to Grow and Care

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