Turkcap

(Malvaviscus arboreus)

Turkcap (Malvaviscus arboreus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Malvaviscus arboreus, commonly known as Turkcap, is a deciduous perennial herb that is part of the hibiscus family. It is native to a variety of habitats including forest understories, thickets, and along stream banks in the US Gulf States, Mexico, Central America, and South America. Turkcap typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) with a similar spread and has a bushy, upright growth habit. Its flowers are distinctive, resembling a closed hibiscus, with overlapping red petals that never fully open, blooming from May through November, and continuously in mild winters. The flowers are particularly showy and attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making it an important nectar source.

Turkcap is valued for its long flowering season and the unique shape of its blooms, which add interest to shady garden areas. It is commonly used in butterfly and hummingbird gardens, as well as in borders and as an informal hedge. This plant thrives in partial to full shade, prefers moist but well-drained soils, and is relatively low maintenance. While it can tolerate short periods of drought, consistent moisture will promote the best flowering. It is also heat tolerant and can adapt to urban conditions. However, gardeners should be aware that Turkcap can spread aggressively by self-seeding and may become invasive outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Herb
  • Height: 10-15 feet
  • Width: 9-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Red
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to forest understories, thickets, and stream banks in the US Gulf States, Mexico, Central America, and South America

Other Names

Common Names: Turk’s-Cap , Turk’s Turban , Ladies Teardrop , Scotchman’s Purse , Manzanillo , Tripa De Buey , Tulipancillo , Monacillo , Obelisco De La Sierra , Flor De Santos

Scientific Names: Malvaviscus arboreus , Malvaviscus arboreus var. arboreus , Malvaviscus arboreus var. grisebachii , Malvaviscus polakowskyi , Hibiscus jerroldianus , Hibiscus jerroldii , Hibiscus nutans , Malvaviscus arboreus var. pilosus , Malvaviscus arboreus var. sagranus , Malvaviscus sagranus

GBIF Accepted Name: Malvaviscus arboreus Cav.