Flowering Maple Abutilon 'Wakehurst'
ABOUT
Abutilon 'Wakehurst', commonly known as the flowering maple, is a visually striking plant that bears a resemblance to the maple tree because of its similar leaf shape. The leaves are broad and somewhat heart-shaped, showcasing a bright green color with a slightly serrated edge. The plant blooms with bell-shaped flowers that dangle like ornamental lanterns from its branches. These flowers often exhibit colors ranging from yellow to orange, sometimes with prominent veining or a delicate, contrasting color at the center, attracting various pollinators. The flowering maple has a fairly bushy habit, presenting a lush and full appearance with branches that can arch gracefully under the weight of the blooms. The stems are somewhat woody, giving the plant a sturdy structure. Overall, the flowering maple is known for its decorative foliage and the charming appeal of its blooms that provide a splash of color to gardens and indoor spaces alike.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Flowering Maple, Parlor Maple, Chinese Bell Flower, Chinese Lantern
Common names
Abutilon 'Wakehurst'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Abutilon 'Wakehurst', commonly known as the Flowering Maple, is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the plant. Although no specific toxic effects are commonly reported, it is always possible for sensitive individuals to experience an adverse reaction, which could range from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to more severe allergic reactions depending on the person's susceptibility.
To pets
The Abutilon 'Wakehurst', also known as the Flowering Maple, is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe for dogs, cats, and other household animals. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially cause a mild stomach upset in some pets due to the fiber content or individual sensitivities, even if the plant is not toxic per se. Keeping an eye on your pet and consulting with a veterinarian if any unusual symptoms arise after ingestion is advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Abutilon 'Wakehurst' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators with its vibrant flowers, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its showy bell-shaped flowers and attractive foliage, this flowering maple adds visual interest and beauty to any landscape or garden setting.
- Versatile Planting Options: It can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or in the ground, offering versatility for gardeners with different space limitations.
- Easy to Grow: Flowering maples are considered low-maintenance and easy-to-grow plants, making them suitable for novice gardeners or those looking for uncomplicated garden additions.
- Long Blooming Period: Abutilon 'Wakehurst' provides a long season of blooms, often from spring to fall, ensuring a colorful display for an extended period.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, these plants can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering in certain climates.
- Frost Resistance: While not completely frost-hardy, Abutilon 'Wakehurst' can withstand mild frosts, making it a viable option for cooler regions with some winter protection.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Abutilon 'Wakehurst', also known as flowering maple, can be used in the making of a natural dye. The flowers, leaves, and even the bark can give varying shades depending on the mordant used.
- Its fibrous bark has historically been used in some regions to make ropes and textiles, capitalizing on its strength and flexibility.
- The nectar-rich flowers of the flowering maple can serve as a food source for hummingbirds, making it a great plant for attracting these birds to gardens.
- Fine woodworking and crafting may benefit from the lightweight yet sturdy wood of Abutilon 'Wakehurst', used in making small decorative items.
- When dried, the flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures for a subtle fragrance and added visual appeal.
- The sap of the flowering maple is sometimes used in traditional crafts for a natural adhesive, though this is not a common practice.
- Its large, attractive leaves can be used in floral arrangements or as a natural decorative background in displays.
- Abutilon 'Wakehurst' can be planted as a companion plant in gardens to attract beneficial insects that help control pests.
- With proper treatment and processing, some crafters might use the stems and branches for making natural wreaths and other decorative items.
- In some cultures, the flowering maple is used in symbolic ceremonies and decorations due to its distinctive blooms and growth pattern.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Abutilon, commonly known as Flowering Maple, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Flowering Maple is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Some people believe that the Abutilon plant can symbolize shelter and protection due to its broad leaves that can provide cover.
- Domestic happiness: The plant's growth indoors is often associated with creating a happy and nurturing home atmosphere.
- Delicate beauty: With its bell-shaped flowers, Abutilon 'Wakehurst' could symbolize the idea of delicate beauty, grace, and a gentle nature.
- Subtle charm: The subtle and soft colors of its flowers might convey a sense of understated elegance and charm.
WaterThe Flowering Maple should be watered regularly, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In general, this equates to watering once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently, perhaps every 4 to 5 days, especially if the plant is outdoors in a warm climate. Provide the Flowering Maple with roughly 16-24 ounces of water at each watering, ensuring thorough hydration without waterlogging the soil. In winter, reduce the amount of water to avoid root rot, observing the dryness of the soil as a guide.
LightThe Flowering Maple thrives best in bright, indirect light. It should be placed in a location where it receives several hours of filtered sunlight, such as near an east- or west-facing window. Direct sunlight can be harmful, especially during the hot midday hours, so if placed near a south-facing window, it may need some shade. Adequate light is crucial for the Flowering Maple to flower prolifically.
TemperatureThe Flowering Maple prefers moderate temperatures, thriving in a range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from sudden cold drafts. This plant is not frost-hardy and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods. The ideal conditions are consistent, temperate environments without extreme fluctuations.
PruningPruning the Flowering Maple is essential for encouraging bushier growth and more blooms. Prune in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts. Cut back leggy stems, unhealthy growth, and spent flowers to maintain an attractive shape. Pruning can be done every year or as needed when the plant becomes too large or untidy. The best time for pruning is after the last frost in spring, as new growth will not be at risk of cold damage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFlowering Maple requires well-draining potting soil with a mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite. The pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth and flowering.
RepottingFlowering Maples should be repotted every 1-2 years to ensure they have enough space to grow and refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingFlowering Maples thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use a bright spot, well-draining soil, and moderate water.
Outdoor
Plant in a sheltered spot with morning sun and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of an Abutilon 'Wakehurst', commonly known as Flowering Maple, begins with seed germination, which requires warm temperatures and consistently moist soil for successful sprouting. Once germinated, the seedlings grow rapidly, developing into young plants with characteristic heart-shaped leaves and a strong, upright habit. Flowering Maples reach maturity and begin to bloom within a few months, displaying bell-shaped flowers that can be orange, yellow, pink, or red, depending on the variety. The plant continues to grow and produce flowers throughout the warmer months, often requiring regular watering and pruning to maintain shape and encourage more blooms. As a perennial in warmer climates, the Abutilon 'Wakehurst' will enter a dormant phase in response to cooler temperatures, with reduced growth and fewer flowers, but it can be overwintered indoors in cooler regions. The cycle repeats with new growth resuming in the spring as temperatures rise, although propagation by cuttings is often preferred to growing new plants from seeds.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the flowering maple, Abutilon 'Wakehurst', is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process is generally best done in late summer. To propagate, choose a healthy stem that is not flowering and cut a length of approximately 4-6 inches (10-15 cm). Strip the bottom leaves off, leaving a few at the top, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite, ensuring that it's moist but not wet. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place it in indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which you can gradually acclimate the plant to less humid conditions before transplanting it outside or to a larger container.
