Homegrown by us here in the UK, peat free using organic methods
Plant Type:
Shrub
Abutilon ‘Red Tiger‘ boasts vibrant, bell-shaped flowers with red petals streaked yellow. Its maple-shaped, green leaves add to its appeal. Tolerating mild frost (around -5°C), it suits sheltered UK gardens or containers, offering a tropical splash of colour.
Cold Hardiness:
Half-hardy
Abutilon ‘Red Tiger’ is considered tender in most UK gardens. Its cold hardiness is limited, generally tolerating temperatures down to around -5°C for short periods. This means it’s vulnerable to prolonged or severe frosts. In colder regions of the UK, and even in milder areas during harsh winters, it requires protection. This can involve moving container-grown plants indoors or to a greenhouse, or providing substantial fleece covering for those planted in sheltered spots. In essence, it’s best treated as a conservatory or patio plant, requiring winter care to survive outdoors
Eventual Height:
1.5m
In UK gardens, Abutilon ‘Red Tiger‘ typically reaches a mature height of 1.5 to 2.5 meters (approximately 5 to 8 feet), though this can vary depending on growing conditions and pruning. When grown in containers, it may remain smaller. In sheltered, sunny locations with well-drained soil, it has the best chance of reaching its full potential. Regular pruning can influence its shape and size, encouraging bushier growth and preventing it from becoming too leggy. Due to its tenderness, in colder UK areas, it might not achieve its maximum height as it could suffer dieback during winter.
Light requirements:
Full sun – Partial Shade
Abutilon ‘Red Tiger’ thrives in bright, sunny conditions. To produce abundant, vibrant flowers, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In the UK, a south-facing position is ideal. While it can tolerate some partial shade, insufficient light will result in fewer blooms and leggy growth. In greenhouses or conservatories, ensure ample light penetration. When grown indoors, a sunny windowsill is essential. During the winter months, when daylight hours are reduced, supplementary lighting may be beneficial to maintain healthy growth and prevent dormancy.
Water Requirements:
Average
During the UK summer, Abutilon ‘Red Tiger’ requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to slightly dry out between waterings. Container-grown plants will need more frequent watering than those in the ground. In winter, when the plant’s growth slows, reduce watering significantly. Overwatering during colder months can lead to root rot. Only water when the soil is noticeably dry, and ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging. In sheltered locations or indoors, monitor soil moisture closely, as central heating can dry out the soil.
Caring for this plant:
Spring & Summer: Provide a sunny or semi-shaded spot and give plenty of room to grow. Use a free draining potting mix. Water well in summer. Pinch out the growing tips to achieve a bushier form.
Autumn & Winter: Protection from cold with horticultural fleece can be beneficial in severe cold weather. Soft new growth may be frosted back.
