A Detailed Guide to the Distribution and Growth Habits of Wax Mallow

Alternative Names for Wax Mallow

Because its appearance somewhat resembles Chinese hibiscus, wax mallow is also known as South American hibiscus and curled-petal hibiscus. In addition, wax mallow is also called lantern hibiscus, dahongpao, drooping wax mallow, little wax mallow and pink-flowered wax mallow.

Morphological Characteristics of Wax Mallow

Wax mallow is an evergreen shrub that looks somewhat like Chinese hibiscus, but its leaves are more narrow and elongated, and dark green in color. Unlike other hibiscus species, its flowers do not fully open; the bright red petals are spirally curled and hang in a bell shape. The stamens and pistils are slender and protrude beyond the petals from the bud. The petals are slightly left-twisted, never opening from the bud stage, and are fish-red in color. The leaves are broad and heart-shaped, with shallow two-lobed or angular margins. The flowers hanging downward are its most distinctive feature.

Growth Habits of Wax Mallow

Wax mallow prefers high temperatures, high humidity and a sunny environment. It is heat-tolerant, drought-tolerant, tolerant of poor soil and moisture, but not tolerant of cold or frost. It tolerates slight shade, dislikes waterlogging, and grows quickly.

Wax mallow has no strict requirements for soil, but the best soil is fertile, loose, well-drained and slightly acidic.