Flowering Maple (Abutilon): Bell-Shaped Blooms for Bright Indoor Spaces

Botanical Name: Abutilon hybridum

Flowering maple flourishes with the same conditions as its native tropical habitat. Bright light and warmth make it thrive—and flower most of the year.

Maple leaf-shaped foliage lends one common name. Sometimes called Chinese lantern plants for the drooping papery flowers' shape.

Expect big, bell-shaped flowers in red, pink, orange, yellow, or peach to cover the plant spring through fall.

The Abutilon genus includes 100+ flowering shrubs. In nature, they reach 10 ft (3 m). Indoors, keep around 2–3 ft (60–90 cm).

Pruning Tip

Prune in spring before vigorous growth begins. Regular pruning keeps the plant small and prevents legginess.

Flowering maple responds well to pruning—don't fear cutting back harshly in spring, removing up to a third. Pinch growing tips to promote branching.

Water Thoroughly Uneven watering creates dry soil pockets. Dry roots cause wilting, leaf and flower drop. Always use a pot with a drainage hole to prevent root rot.

Shed Some Light These need plenty of light to bloom. Put in front of a sunny window. Move outdoors for warm months if desired—just shade from hot midday sun.

Repot in Spring when new growth appears. Blooms best slightly pot-bound—move up one size only when necessary.

Flowering Maple Care Quick Reference

Origin: Brazil

Height: Up to 10 ft (3 m) if not pruned. Prune regularly to max 3 ft (90 cm). Tall plants need staking.

Light: Bright light to full sun. Shade from direct midday sun.

Water: Water thoroughly, allow top inch to dry between waterings. Empty drainage tray to prevent root rot.

Humidity: Moderate. Mist foliage every few days when needed, especially in dry winter air.

Temperature: Average to warm, 60–80°F (16–27°C). Tropical natives hate cold. If outdoors in summer, bring in if nights dip below 55°F (13°C). Colder temps may cause leaf drop and winter dormancy.

Soil: Peat moss-based potting mix

Fertilizer: Feed every 2 weeks spring through fall with high-phosphorus liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation: Take 4 in (10 cm) stem tip cuttings in spring. Dip cut ends in rooting powder and plant in moist soil.