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Wax Mallow Miniature

​​​​Wax Mallow Miniature

Malaviscus arboreus var. drummndii

  • Common name: Wax mallow, Ladies’ Eardrops, Drummond’s Turk’s Cap, Sleeping Hibiscus
  • Scientific name: Malaviscus arboreus var. drummondii
  • Family name: Malvaceae
  • Origin: Mexico
  • Height: 2-6 ft
  • Width: 2-4 ft
  • Growth: Fast
  • Zone: 8b-11
  • Light needs: Full sun to part shade
  • Salt tolerance: Low
  • Soil/pH/Texture: Can survive in a range of soil types, but prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil (pH 6.1-7.5)
  • Moisture: Moderate watering needs; water regularly until established, then only water in dry conditions.
  • Drought tolerance: High
  • Pests/diseases: Not very susceptible to pests or diseases
  • Growing conditions: Best grown in well-drained, slightly moist, loamy soil, but it can adapt to many conditions. Should be given room to grow away from other plants in a warm, sunny area. Should be pruned periodically to keep it at its healthiest. Can be planted in a large container or directly in the ground.
  • Characteristics: Leaves are broad and three-pointed with prominent venation, and grow in an alternate pattern along the stem. Flowers grow singularly and are bright red and pendant shaped. The flowers are described as looking like they are “just about to bloom”, as the petals overlap to form a tube-like shape. Stamens and style are red, prominent, and stick out of the center of the flower.
  • Propagation: By cuttings
  • Wildlife: Flowers attract many types of pollinators, especially hummingbirds
  • Facts: This variety of Turk’s Cap is named after Thomas Drummond, a Scottish botanist who documented many plant and bird specimens in Texas and Central America. There are several cultivars that produce pink or white flowers.
  • Designer considerations: Can be used for mass plantings, hedges, or specimen plantings. It can also be planted in containers with smaller plants. A great choice for hummingbird lovers, as this plant is known to attract hummingbirds with its nectar.

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