Ornamentals

Shrub- Island Tree Mallow

Botanical Name:    Lavatera assurgentiflora

Family:    Malvaceae

Description:    Evergreen shrub; naturalized in central and southern coastal areas of California; native of Santa Barbara Islands; 10 to 12 feet high and wide

Sun:     Full to part sun

Water:  Drought tolerant to occasional watering

Soil:    Adaptable, prefers good drainage

Habit and form:    Fast growing, upright, multi-branched, broad leaves

Flower type:    Striking, large tropical-looking flower, 2 to 3 inches across

Flower color & bloom season:    Bright pink/lavender flowers with white stripes bloom heaviest spring to summer

Uses, if any, for plant and/or flowers:    Attracts birds and butterflies; can be used as a windbreak hedge

Pruning time & method:    Can be trained as small tree;
prune to keep dense