part shade (2-4 hours of direct morning sun, then shade. An east window is ideal. Grow light 10-12 inches away for 8-10 hours) to full shade is ideal, though it will adapt to full sun (6 or more hours of sun hitting the leaves per day. South-facing window, no obstructions. Under grow lights, keep them 4-8 inches away for 12-14 hours). In unrelenting direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) the leaves tend to become smaller and rougher. It is one of the best flowering plants for shady spots in warm climates.Light

drought tolerant (can go 2-3 weeks without water once established. When in doubt, wait another few days) once established and needs no supplemental watering in most situations. During establishment, water regularly. It handles both dry and moist soil conditions.Water

Tolerates a wide range of humidity. No special requirements -- it is a tough, adaptable plant.Humidity

Hardy in USDA zones 7-11. Foliage dies back with frost but the plant re-sprouts from the roots in spring. In frost-free zones it grows as an evergreen shrub. Freeze-tolerant roots can survive brief dips well below freezing.Temperature

easyDifficulty

Turk’s Cap

Malvaviscus arboreus

Easy

Malvaviscus arboreus is a spreading shrub with hibiscus-like flowers that never quite open -- the bright red petals stay rolled into a loose tube with the staminal column poking out, which is exactly what a Turkish turban looks like and exactly how it got its name. It thrives in shady spots where most flowering shrubs would sulk, making it the rare garden plant that genuinely prefers the spot under the oak tree. You can also eat the small apple-flavored fruits, which is a bonus that most ornamentals cannot claim.

Care Guide

How to grow Turk’s Cap

Light

part shade (2-4 hours of

Water

drought tolerant (can go 2-3

Humidity

Tolerates a wide range of humidity.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 7-11.

Soil

Adaptable to sandy, loamy, clay,

Propagation

Softwood cuttings 4-6 inches long

Common Problems

Very few.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The small red fruits taste like mild apple, which is why the plant is called 'Manzanilla' (Little Apple) in Spanish -- you can eat them raw or cooked.

Pet Safety

Pet safe

Non-toxic to pets and humans. The fruits, flowers, and leaves are edible. Scientific research has confirmed no acute toxicity.

Turk’s Cap

How to grow Turk’s Cap

Fun Facts

Pet safe

Sources

Your Cart