ABELMOSCHUS (Silk Flower) Malvaceae Abelmoschus sp.
HABITAT: Perennial of unknown hardiness, thought to be native of Central Asia.
USES: Borders, pot plant.
HABIT: 15 inch compact plants, spreading to 20 inches. 3-4 inch flowers, ranging from rich red to bright pink, each with white centers.
SEED GERMINATION AND CULTURE: Sow seed about 6-8 weeks before setting out after last frost. Sow on Park's Grow Mix covering to the thickness of the seed or use Park's Bio Dome Seed Starter. Place in a warm location about 70°F. Gentle bottom heat, as from a soil heating cable, enhances germination. Transplant to 2 ½ inch pots when 4 leaves develop.
After hardening off, plant in a sunny, well-drained location in ordinary soil 15 inches apart.
PROPAGATION: Seeds.
