Anisodontea scabrosa
Description
Native to South Africa, this new selection of Anisodontea flowers abundantly almost without interruption from April to October and continues late into autumn in regions with mild winters. The flowers, similar to those of Malvaceae, are two-toned: pale pink with dark pink veins in the centre, and larger than others of the species (2 - 3 cm in diameter). They attract butterflies.'Miss Pinky' quickly shapes into a shrub with long straight, more or less ramified branches. This variety has a more compact shape than others of this species.
Its finely jagged foliage is fragrant and evergreen to semi-evergreen.
Covered in flowers from April onwards, and in certain regions until October, 'Miss Pinky' is of sure value, for beds as well as in pots on a terrace or balcony.
Protect in regions with cold winters.
Propagation instructions - cuttings
cuttings taken in spring and summer once the new shoots have become semi-hard. Use a well drained sandy soil medium. Transplant young plants before the new seasons growth; they do not handle too much disturbance at a later stage.As in the wild, it should be grown in a well drained, warm, sunny spot with free air flow. They do not favour humid climates with hot wet summers. Should the plants not be well aired, white-fly may become a possible pest.
They tolerate light shade, but flower better in full sun. Feed with a slow release 3.1.5 for vigorous growth and water regularly throughout summer to promote abundant flowering. Being frost tolerant they are able to grow away from the coast.
Propagation instructions - seeds
Must grow seeds in Autumn
Sources and references
Scientific name
Anisodontea scabrosa
Common name(s)
rough-leaf African mallow, sand rose, pink mallow, hairy mallow
Features
- Attracts butterflies
- Can be used as a hedge
- Drought-resistant
- Fast-growing
- Fragrant
- Good potplant
- Pioneer species
- Suitable for clay soil
- Suitable for sandy soil
- This will attract honey bees
- Wind resistant