Abelmoschus manihot (Sunset Muskmallow)

Fast-growing, Abelmoschus manihot (Sunset Muskmallow) is a tropical perennial often grown as an annual in temperate climate areas. It forms a bushy clump of magnificent palmate, dissected leaves, 4 in. across (10 cm), each adorned with 5-7 deep lobes. Large pale yellow flowers, up to 6 in. across (15 cm), adorned with a contrasting dark purple eye bloom from mid-summer to fall. Attractive to butterflies and other pollinators, they are followed by green, hairy seed pods. But even without these gorgeous blooms, this plant is worth growing for its palmately divided, deep green leaves. The leaves and flower buds can be served raw or cooked.

• Typically grows up to 4-6 ft. tall (120-180 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Needs regular fertilization and irrigation for best performance.
• Plant in beds and borders, containers, wall-side borders, and cottage gardens for dramatic summer blooms.
• Keep an eye out for aphids, slugs, snails, white flies, and powdery mildew. Deer resistant.
• Cut back stems as they finish flowering.
• Propagate by seed, or by softwood cuttings in early summer.
• Native of southeastern Asia.