Trailing Abutilon
Abutilon megapotamicumfam. Malvaceae
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Pl. DC90 — Abutilon megapotamicum
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IOverview
Overview
Trailing Abutilon, scientifically known as Abutilon megapotamicum and belonging to the Malvaceae family, is native to southern Brazil. This plant is valued for its edible flowers and thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil. It can grow up to 2 meters tall and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Its distinctive feature lies in the ornamental value of its flowers, making it a popular choice for gardens despite being native to Brazil's southern regions.
Quick answers
What is Trailing Abutilon?
Trailing Abutilon, scientifically known as Abutilon megapotamicum and belonging to the Malvaceae family, is native to southern Brazil. This plant is valued for its edible flowers and thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Trailing Abutilon thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10 and can reach a height of 2 meters. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Harvest the edible flowers for culinary uses.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Trailing Abutilon for the first time
8steps
Start with Trailing Abutilon in a sunny spot, and it will reward you with beautiful flowers.
- 1
What you'll need
Trailing Abutilon plants or seeds, potting soil, containers, and gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining potting soil. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant outdoors after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot and protect from strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, depending on your climate. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove dead flowers to promote more blooms.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soils, neglecting to prune, not providing enough sunlight, and exposing to frost.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The trailing abutilon's flowers are edible and can be enjoyed raw or used in various preparations. They add a mild flavor to salads or can be incorporated into light dishes where their delicate taste complements other ingredients without overpowering them.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 2 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 1 native· 2 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Portugal
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Bolivia
Broader regions
native:Brazil South
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Malvaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Malvaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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