Malvaceae
Abutilon pannosum var. pannosum
Ragged Mallow
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Ragged Mallow is an erect perennial herb or subshrub, typically growing 1.5 to 3 metres tall, with all its parts covered in velvety hairs. Its broadly ovate leaves, 4-13 cm across, are irregularly toothed and heart-shaped at the base. Yellow flowers, measuring 3-4.5 cm across, emerge singly from leaf axils or in clusters on terminal branches.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers fertile, well-drained soil. It is suitable for Kilifi coast gardens, especially in areas mimicking its natural habitat of silty flood-plains, river banks, or depressions in bushland, making it ideal as a decorative specimen or for restoration in appropriate dry tropical biome settings.
Growing notes
Ragged Mallow is a vigorous grower that benefits from regular watering, particularly during dry spells, though waterlogging should be avoided. Feed every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Regular pruning helps maintain a compact, bushy form and encourages abundant flowering.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: doh.gov.ae, wikipedia.org, flowersofindia.net, theferns.info, researchgate.net, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.