Abutilon megapotamicum
11th September 2011
The hardy Abutilon such as .A.vitifolium don't always look like Abutilons in the same way that
the hardy Hibiiscus syriacus doesn't really look like the Hibiscus I imagine lining the streets of Shangri-La
and enticing the ministrations of chalcedine hummingbirds.
Fortunately Abutilon megapotamicum is a freak, both hardy and exotic.
Abutilon megapotamicum comes from the southern end of Brazil, Argentina and Uraguay where it forms low twiggy shrubs
in dryish ground. Unquestionably hardy because we choose not to question it, not because of its hardiness it is reliable enough
on a south wall and easy to propagate if some insurance is required.
Currently growing in a pot in the greenhouse because I can't imagine where I am going to plant it. Fortunately my lack of imagination
does not represent a significant obstacle to cultivation.