Xeriscape Landscaping Plants For The Arizona Desert Environment
Pictures, Photos, And Information
Shrubs

Mexican Turk's Cap, Malvaviscus arboreus var. mexicanus

Mexican Turk's Cap, Malvaviscus arboreus var. mexicanus. February 8, 2008. Phoenix, Arizona Zoo.

Mexican Turk's Cap Malvaviscus arboreus var. mexicanus	Mexican Turk's Cap Malvaviscus arboreus var. mexicanus

Mexican Turk's Cap Malvaviscus arboreus var. mexicanus, Mallow Family: ( Malvaceae ), Mexican Turk's Cap. Also called: Drummond Wax-Mallow, Manzanilla, Mexican Apple, Red Mallow, Wax Mallow, Sleepy Mallow, Sultan's Turban. This is a shrub native to the tropical regions of Mexico and Cuba and also to the Gulf States in the U.S. Its flowers that are similar to those of Hibiscus however the petals only partially unfurl, producing a narrow funnel shaped flower, giving it the common name of Turk's Cap. Mexican Turk's Cap reaches about 3 - 4 feet with an equal spread in Phoenix. It has bright red flowers that are about 2 to 3 inches long. Turk's Cap requires full sun or partial shade. It does best in partial shade in Phoenix. The flowers attract bees and humingbirds into the garden. This plant's main blooming time is fall, winter, and early spring. It will, however, occasionally bloom at any time of the year. Height: Mexican Turk's Cap reaches about 3 - 4 feet with an equal spread. Flowers: Bright red flowers that are about 2 to 3 inches long.. Blooming Time: Mid February - November. Leaves: Simple softly pubescent acuminate leaves, approximately 5 - 6 inches in length, with rounded, cordate bases. Leaf margins are serrated, and venation is palmate with the leaf having three distinct tips. Found: Native of Mexico and Cuba and also to the Gulf States in the U.S. Elevation: 0 - 1800 Feet. Habitat: Well-drained soils. Needs some water but could be considered a Xeriscape Landscape Plant in Arizona. Miscellaneous: Flowering Photos Taken February 8, 2008. Phoenix, Arizona Zoo.