Brighten Your Garden with Chinese Lantern Abutilon

The Chinese Lantern Abutilon, also known as the Flowering Maple, is a stunning addition to any garden or indoor space. This live plant features vibrant, lantern-shaped blooms in red and yellow, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Its unique maple-leaf-shaped foliage with green and yellow markings adds visual interest, making it a standout choice for hanging baskets and containers.

This versatile vine thrives in zones 9-10 as an evergreen perennial and can be grown as an annual in other climates. The Chinese Lantern Abutilon is not only beautiful but also safe, being both child and pet-friendly. Enhance your garden with this well-rooted plug and enjoy its colorful presence throughout the fall, spring, and summer.

Growing Tips for Your Flowering Maple

To ensure your Chinese Lantern Abutilon flourishes, consider these growing tips. Plant 4-5 starter plants per 10″-12″ basket, planting them deep so the top of the ellepot is slightly below the soil level. Pinching is recommended to maintain a compact shape, especially given the plant’s natural size. Allow four weeks from the last pinch for blooms to appear. Vernalization, keeping it in a cool environment during winter, promotes compact growth and abundant flowering in spring.

Spacing and Winter Care

For oversized baskets, space your hanging baskets wider than normal, around 3 feet. For stockier plants, 2-foot spacing is ideal. During winter months, especially in regions where temperatures drop below 40 degrees, a heat pack is highly recommended to ensure the plant’s healthy arrival. Sign up for USPS text notifications to prevent your package from sitting outside for extended periods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Lantern Abutilon

1. How big will my Chinese Lantern Abutilon get?
The Chinese Lantern Abutilon is naturally a larger plant, but regular pinching can help maintain a more compact size. Without pinching, it can grow several feet long, making it ideal for large hanging baskets or climbing structures.

2. What kind of sunlight does it need?
This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, too much intense sunlight can scorch the leaves. Aim for at least 4-6 hours of indirect light daily.

3. How often should I water it?
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently than in the dormant season (fall and winter).

4. Is the Chinese Lantern Abutilon safe for my pets and children?
Yes, the Chinese Lantern Abutilon is considered child and pet-safe, providing peace of mind for families with curious little ones or furry friends.

5. How do I overwinter my Abutilon in colder climates?
In zones where Abutilon is not perennial (zones lower than 9), bring the plant indoors before the first frost. Keep it in a cool room with temperatures around 45°F (7°C). Water sparingly and provide bright, indirect light. This vernalization process helps the plant bloom profusely when brought back to warmer spring temperatures.