African Mallow shrub also known as Hibiscus acetosella, is a gorgeous flowering shrub that can add an exotic flair to any outdoor space. With its deep burgundy leaves and vibrant blooms, this tropical plant is a real head-turner. If you already have an African Mallow in your garden propagating it is a great way to get more plants for free. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the different propagation techniques to help you successfully grow new African Mallow shrubs.
An Overview of African Mallow Shrub
Before jumping into propagation, let’s quickly go over some key facts about African Mallow. Native to Africa, this shrub thrives in warm climates and does well in zones 9-11. It can survive as a perennial in frost-free regions but is often grown as an annual in colder areas.
The deeply lobed leaves have a striking dark red color that makes a bold statement in the garden. The blooms are equally eye-catching with large showy flowers in shades of pink, red, or white. African Mallow can reach up to 5 feet tall at maturity and spreads out nicely with a mounded form.
Once established, African Mallow is relatively low maintenance. It’s drought tolerant but also accepts occasional watering. Well-draining soil amended with compost is ideal. This tropical beauty attracts pollinators and is deer resistant.
Propagating African Mallow Shrub from Cuttings
Taking stem cuttings from a parent plant is the quickest and easiest way to propagate African Mallow. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Select a Healthy Stem
Choose a stem that’s free from damage and disease. Select one that hasn’t flowered yet for best results.
Make the Cut
Use clean, sterilized pruners to cut off a stem around 4-6 inches below a leaf node. Cut at an angle to maximize the surface area.
Prep the Cutting
Strip off the bottom leaves so you have a bare stem section of a few inches. This will be buried in the soil.
Dip in Rooting Hormone (Optional)
You can dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder/gel to stimulate root growth.
Plant in Soil
Fill a small pot with well-draining potting mix. Make a hole and insert the cutting so at least 2 nodes are buried.
Provide Warmth and Humidity
Place the potted cutting in filtered light and keep the soil moist. Cover with a plastic bag to boost humidity.
Monitor Watering and Growth
Water just enough to keep the soil barely moist. Watch for new growth and root development.
Transplant
Once the cutting is rooted and growing strongly, transplant it into a larger pot or the garden.
Propagating African Mallow from Seeds
Growing African Mallow from seeds is another effective approach. Though it takes longer than cuttings, it’s more affordable. Follow these simple steps:
Collect Seeds
Let the flowers dry on the plant before harvesting seeds. Place the dry pods in a paper bag and shake out the seeds.
Start Seeds Indoors
Fill starter trays with seed starting mix. Sow seeds just below the surface. Cover and keep warm (70-75°F).
Provide Light
Once sprouted, ensure seedlings get 12-14 hours of light from grow lights or sunlight.
Monitor Moisture
Keep the soil consistently damp but not soggy during germination and early growth.
Transplant Outdoors
After the last frost, transplant seedlings into the garden when they have 4-6 true leaves. Harden off for a week beforehand.
Ongoing Care
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer once established.
Propagating African Mallow by Division
Mature African Mallow shrubs can also be propagated by division. It’s best done in early spring:
Water Well
Water the plant deeply a day before dividing so the root ball stays intact.
Dig Up the Plant
Carefully dig up the entire shrub and shake off excess soil from the roots.
Divide the Root Ball
Use your hands or a sharp, clean knife to split the root ball into smaller sections.
Replant Divisions
Plant each division promptly in its new spot, keeping it at the same depth as before. Water well.
Provide Post-Division Care
Mulch divisions and water regularly until established. Stake stems if needed.
Propagating by Layering
Layering involves encouraging side shoots to root while still attached to the parent plant. Here are two layering techniques for African Mallow:
Simple Layering
Bend a flexible stem to the ground and bury a section in soil. Stake it down and wait for roots to form. Then detach and replant.
Air Layering
Make a cut on a stem midway, dust with rooting hormone, wrap in sphagnum moss, and cover in plastic. Once roots form inside, cut and replant.
Tips for Successful African Mallow Propagation
Following some basic guidelines will ensure your success when propagating African Mallow shrubs:
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Take cuttings from vigorous, young growth for the best chance of rooting. Old wood cuttings often fail.
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Spring and summer are the best times for propagation when plants are actively growing.
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Keep cuttings and new seedlings evenly moist, not soggy wet. Good drainage is key.
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Transplant new plants on a mild, cloudy day to prevent transplant shock. Harden off first.
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Amend soil with compost before planting for nutrients and improved drainage.
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Shelter new plants from harsh sun and wind, which can damage tender growth.
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Be patient! Root development takes time, so allow 4-8 weeks before expecting visible results.
Enjoy the Fruits of Propagation
With the right techniques and care, propagating African Mallow shrubs is very achievable. In no time, you’ll have lush, vibrant new plants from your existing specimens. Propagation is highly rewarding and lets you expand your garden for free. Go ahead and give it a try this season!
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Planting the Seeds
Start with a well-draining soil mix—think equal parts potting soil, sand, and perlite. Your Tree Mallows future depends on this trifecta for proper drainage and aeration.
Scatter the seeds over the soil surface with the care of a jeweler setting diamonds. They need space, so dont crowd them. A light dusting of soil should follow—just enough to tuck them in, not bury them alive.
Moisture and warmth are non-negotiable for germination. Cover your seed tray with plastic wrap or a clear lid to lock in humidity. Place the tray in a spot with bright, indirect light—think cozy, not sunbathing.
Water to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering is a one-way ticket to root rot, so lets not drown our future Tree Mallows. A gentle misting can work wonders here.
Watch for the first signs of life—sprouts are your green light. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain that warm, humid environment. Celebrate when you see those first true leaves; youve just started a new generation.
Multiplying Magic: Division Propagation
Dividing Tree Mallow is like a garden refresh button. Late fall or early spring, when the plant is dozing off or just waking up, is your sweet spot for division.
Dormancy is key. Post-bloom, pre-frost fall, or pre-sprout spring are your go-to seasons. This timing gives your plant divisions the best shot at taking root without the stress of extreme weather or active growth.
First, dig up your Tree Mallow, aiming to keep the root system intact. Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the root mass, ensuring each new plant has its own set of roots and shoots. Think of it as plant surgery—precision matters.
Anisodontea – Cape Mallow care – Abundant flowers for every season!
FAQ
Can you grow mallow from a cutting?
How to propagate globe mallow from cuttings?
How do you grow African Mallow?
Fertilize more often during the growing season and in warmer and brighter climates. African mallow grows vertically and new growth will emerge from the top of the plant. African mallow can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 8a-11b. Find your local hardiness zone here . The seeds of African mallow can be used to grow new plants!
Can African Mallow be grown outdoors?
African mallow can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 8a-11b. Find your local hardiness zone here . The seeds of African mallow can be used to grow new plants! After your plant flowers, any seeds that formed can be collected and germinated in potting soil.
Is tree mallow a good plant?
This lovely South African native has been a regional favorite for over a century. It is gaining popularity worldwide for its easy care, and continuous display of blooms through the growing season. The flowers look like miniature versions of Tree Mallow. A very charming plant and an excellent choice for growing in a container.
Can Cape Mallow grow in shade?
Get personalized care for every one of your plants! Cape Mallow is an easy to grow upright evergreen subshrub that blooms profusely from spring until frost or all year long in southern temperate climates. Cape Mallows prefer morning sun and partial shade in the afternoon.