Superstition Mallow

Plant Type: Plants & Trees
Plant Height: 4-6 feet
Spread: 2-4 feet
Flower Color: black
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Superstition Mallow: A Striking and Unique Addition to Phoenix Valley Gardens

The Superstition Mallow (Abutilon 'Superstition') is a show-stopping choice for Phoenix Valley gardeners seeking a rare and dramatic bloom. Known for its deep, nearly black flowers, this captivating mallow adds an exotic touch to any landscape, drawing attention with its uncommon color and delicate, bell-shaped blooms.

Key Features of the Superstition Mallow

1. Distinctive Dark Blooms: Superstition Mallow stands out with its unique, almost-black flowers—a rarity that brings a sophisticated, mysterious touch to the garden.
2. Maple-Like Leaves: Often called “flowering maple” due to the maple-like shape of its leaves, this plant offers lush green foliage that contrasts beautifully with its dark blooms.

Growing Superstition Mallow in the Phoenix Valley

• Climate Suitability: Perfect for the warm Phoenix Valley climate, where it can be grown as a perennial. In areas with intense heat, consider partial shade to protect its delicate blooms.
• Size: This medium-sized plant fits well as a focal point in mixed borders, or in containers on patios, where it adds vertical interest and unique visual appeal.
• Watering Needs: Requires regular watering but appreciates well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

Planting and Care Tips

1. Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade; ideal for morning sun with afternoon shade in hotter areas.
2. Water: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during blooming season, but avoid soggy soil.
3. Soil: Prefers well-drained soil with organic matter to retain moisture while promoting drainage.
4. Pruning: Occasional pruning helps shape the plant and promotes bushier growth, leading to more blooms.
5. Winter Protection: In cooler areas of Arizona, provide frost protection, or treat as an annual.

Landscape Uses and Benefits

• Container Gardens: Perfect for patios or small spaces, the Superstition Mallow’s striking blooms make a unique conversation piece.
• Mixed Borders: Adds depth and interest with its dark blooms and green foliage, complementing other vibrant flowers.
• Focal Point: The dramatic flower color creates an eye-catching focal point, perfect for those looking to add elegance to their garden.

Enhance Your Phoenix Valley Garden with Superstition Mallow

Ideal for Phoenix’s warm climate, the Superstition Mallow offers a low-maintenance yet visually captivating option for gardens and container landscapes. Its mysterious dark flowers and ease of care make it a favored choice for gardeners wanting a touch of sophistication and an exotic allure in their outdoor space.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Superstition Mallow

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and vibrant blooms)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Superstition Mallow is a self-supporting shrub that grows into a rounded, bushy form with striking, bright flowers

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 2-3 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Superstition Mallow is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant for deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks