Mexican Turks Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus var. mexicanus): Red Turban Flowers for Hummingbirds

Mexican turks cap (Malvaviscus arboreus var. mexicanus) is a spreading, deciduous shrub with soft, heart-shaped leaves and unique, tubular red flowers that never fully open—they remain folded like a turban or turk's cap, with protruding stamens. Hummingbirds adore them.

Habit

Grows 4–6 feet tall and wide. Blooms from late spring to frost. The flowers are followed by small, red, edible fruits (resembling tiny apples). It is more cold-hardy than the tropical species.

Culture

Full sun to part shade; well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established. Prune in late winter. Hardy in zones 7–11. Excellent for wildlife gardens.

Taxonomy

• Family: Malvaceae
• Genus: Malvaviscus
• Species: arboreus var. mexicanus
• Synonyms: Malvaviscus conzattii, Malvaviscus grandiflorus