Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummuondii, Mexican Turk's Cap is a flowering perennial which attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. It's bright red flowers are a show stopper in the Wilson County Arboretum and Botanical Gardens at 1806 S. Goldsboro Street.

Turk's Cap is hardy in Zone 9b as a shrub. In Wilson, Zone 7b. the plant dies down to the ground with the first frost and returns in the spring. It has survived five Wilson winters.

Turk's Cap does well in sun to shade, afternoon shade is preferred. It will grow from 4 to 9 feet in height. The ones here in the garden are around four feet. Although Turk's Cap does not have a particularly attractive growing habit, very upright, it would look good with other perennials or ornamental grasses to soften the upright branches.

Turk's Cap does best in well drained soils but likes regular watering. Fertilizer requirements are low, 10-30-10 can be used at planting. Keep plants mulched.

This plant's flowers resemble a hibiscus flowers just opening. That is how it received another common name of Sleepy Hibiscus. The flowers upon close inspection and swirled petals that never open, but with long, protruding stamens. Other common names include Ladies' eardrops, Scotchman's purse, and wild fushia.

Turk's Cap is considered an old fashion southern plants which is passed-along to friends and neighbors. It blooms often and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Bloom colors can be red or white depending on cultivar. They bloom mid-summer through early fall.

Although we have not seen any plant pests mealy bugs have been reported on this plant.

Plants can be propagated by division, mound layering and semi-hardwood cuttings. Seeds can be sown outdoors after the last frost. To collect seeds allow seedheads to dry on the plants, then remove and collect seeds.

The Wilson County Arboretum and Botanical Garden, at 1806 S. Goldsboro Street and is open from dawn until dusk. Come visit the garden! Gardening questions can be answered, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 until 3 PM by calling 237-0113.

Date Created: 7/2/03.

Updated 8/25/03