Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii Common Names include Turk's Cap, Drummond's Turk's Cap, Drummond Turk's Cap, Wax Mallow, Drummond's Wax Mallow, Drummond Wax Mallow, Red Mallow, Texas Mallow, Mexican Apple, Sleeping Hibiscus, Bleeding Hearts, Manzanita This spreading shrub typically grows as wide as it does high, about 2-3' each way. It has been known to reach heights of up to 10' tall in frost free climates. Its bright red pendant flowers are similar to those of its hibiscus relatives, but never fully open. Instead, their petals beautifully overlap to form a loose tube with the staminal column protruding, said to resemble a Turkish turban, hence its most common name. These flowers are a nectar source for hummingbirds and butterflies. It produces marble-sized, sweet, edible fruit in the summer and fall that are a treat for humans, birds, and other wildlife. Native to edges of woods, along streams, and on wooded limestone slopes and ledges in Texas, east to Florida and Cuba, north to Arkansas and South Carolina, and south into Mexico. Turk's Cap thrives in part to dappled shade in moist soil. It can adapt and flourish in various conditions, including full sun and heavy soil, and even tolerates some drought once established. However, too much direct sunlight can make its leaves rough, smaller, and somewhat puckered. BONAP MAP Height: 2’-5’Spread: 2’-5’Bloom: May-NovemberLight: Full Sun-Dappled ShadeWater: Low-MediumZone: 7-10 Origin: Texas, Southeastern U.S., Mexico
