Malvaceae
Abutilon mauritianum subsp. zanzibaricum
Country Mallow · Maumanda, Mjamanda, Mbiha, Mopoahabari, Mpamba pori
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Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Abutilon mauritianum subsp. zanzibaricum is a soft-wooded, much-branched perennial herb or shrub, typically growing 0.5-2 metres tall with some specimens reaching 3.5 metres. It features broadly ovate-cordate leaves, dark green above and paler grey-green below, with serrate-crenate margins. Its axillary flowers are yellow, sometimes displaying reddish bases or veins, leading to a subglobose fruit with distinct, spreading, spine-like awns.
Where it works in Kilifi
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers fertile, well-drained loamy soil, though it tolerates various soil types. Being common in coastal bushland on coral in Kenya, it is well-suited for a Kilifi garden as an ornamental specimen plant or as part of a mixed border.
Growing notes
Regular watering is needed, especially during dry spells, but ensure the soil is not waterlogged; it becomes drought tolerant once established. Fertilise every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to encourage flowering. Prune in early spring or tip prune actively growing shoots to maintain a compact, bushy form.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: theferns.info, zimbabweflora.co.zw, jstor.org, plantnet.org, mozambiqueflora.com, earthone.io. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.