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Abutilon megapotamicum 'Little Imp' (Little Imp Abutilon) - 'Little Imp' is a form of the Trailing Abutilon (A. megapotamicum). Like the parent plant, 'Little Imp' has slender, somewhat pendant, branches and smaller leaves than other Abutilon. What sets it apart from the species is that it has larger flowers and a more compact growth habit. It can grow to 5 feet tall and as wide although more often it is smaller. The flowers are lantern-shaped with bright yellow petals emerging from a dusty-red calyx. As with most mallows the pistil and stamens are extended from the center. The bloom period is typically spring through fall but can often be year-round.
Grow in full coastal sun to light shade and water regularly to occasionally. Hardy to 20-25 degrees F. A good plant for hanging containers, espaliering, along borders and as a cut flower. Attractive to hummingbirds.
The name for the genus comes from the Arabic name “aubutilon" that was given to a mallow-like plant though in 2012 the parents of this plant were moved to the genus Callianthe based on molecular evidence that separated them from Abutilon. Until such time that this new name gets wider recognition we continue to use the older name.
This information about Abutilon megapotamicum 'Little Imp' displayed is based on research conducted in our horticultural library and from reliable online resources. We also will relate observations made about it as it grows in our nursery gardens and other gardens we have visited, as well how the crops have performed in containers in our nursery field. We will also incorporate comments that we receive from others and we welcome hearing from anyone with additional information, particularly if they can share any cultural information that would aid others in growing it.
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