Wax mallow, Miniature sleeping Hibiscus
Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii

Family: Malvaceae

What it is like

A small weak shrub. It grows 3-4 m tall. It has oval leaves with teeth around the edge. The leaves are 5-8 cm long. They are finely hairy underneath. The flowers are red. They are folded in a spiral like an umbrella. They are 4-5 cm long. The fruit is like an apple and 2.5 cm wide.

There are 6 Malvaviscus species. They occur in tropical America.

Where it is found

It is a warm temperate plant. It can grow with moderate moisture or in fairly dry conditions. It can grow in a fairly poor but well-drained soil. It needs full sun. It suits hardiness zones 8-10.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Hawaii, Indochina, Mexico, North America, Pacific, SE Asia, Thailand, USA

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Amapola, Manzanita

Synonyms

Malvaviscus drummondii;