Care of the shrub Phymosia umbellata or Mexican Bush Mallow |
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The genus Phymosia, family Malvaceae, includes about 10 species of shrubs native to the American continent. Some species are: Phymosia umbellata, Phymosia umbellata, Phymosia floribunda, Phymosia abutiloides. Common names: Mexican Bush Mallow, Cranberry Cocktail. They are evergreen shrubs of rounded shape that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The large alternate leaves are palmate-shaped, velvety in texture, and greyish-green in color. The flowers can be red, purple or violet and are bell-shaped with petals that look like inverted hearts. They can bloom almost all year round. Mexican Bush Mallow is used as isolated specimens, in bushy groups and in large pots. Phymosia umbellata grows in full sun and semi-shade exposures. It resists light and occasional frosts. The soil can be normal garden soil with coarse sand and organic matter. Water regularly, waiting for the substrate to be almost dry. Mexican Bush Mallow resists a few days of drought but do not resist waterlogging. Fertilize every year in spring with mineral fertilizer and with manure every 2 years in autumn. Prune lightly in late winter to keep it compact. Phymosia umbellata can be attacked by fungi if water collects on the roots. Cranberry Cocktail is propagated by cuttings in spring or late summer. |
Images of the shrub Phymosia umbellata or Mexican Bush Mallow |
 Phymosia umbellata  Phymosia umbellata  Phymosia umbellata  Phymosia umbellata  Phymosia umbellata |