Featured Plant

Malvaviscus arboreus is native to the subtropical areas of southern Texas and Florida, as well as the cloud forests of Mexico and Colombia. It is a rangy, handsome shrub, reaching eight to ten feet, with flowers borne in the axils of its soft velvety leaves. The scarlet petals are tightly wrapped around a central column comprised of the pistil and stamens. This column protrudes beyond the petals which remain closed, giving way to the common name, "sleeping hibiscus," an apt description. Even though both are members of the Malvaceae family, the petals of Malvaviscus always remain tightly closed whereas those of the more commonly known hibiscus flare open with wide displays of brilliant colors.

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Like many plants that grow in cloud forest habitats, Malavaviscus blooms in fall and winter, when the tropical rains are over. It is drought tolerant once established, and can be invasive if left uncontrolled.