Abutilon 'Nabob' - Flowering Maple
Abutilon 'Nabob' is a classic Victorian-era favorite, prized for its exceptionally dark, rich crimson flowers that dangle like velvet lanterns. Though often called the "Flowering Maple" due to the shape of its soft, lobed leaves, it is actually a member of the Mallow family—more closely related to Hibiscus than to Maples.
This variety is particularly sought after for its vigorous growth habit and its ability to bloom almost year-round in tropical and subtropical climates. Whether grown as a container plant on a bright patio or as a feature shrub in the garden, 'Nabob' provides an exotic, architectural look that attracts pollinators and adds dramatic color to your collection.
Light
▾Prefers bright, indirect light or filtered sun. In hotter parts of India, afternoon shade is essential to prevent the soft leaves from wilting. Indoors, place it in the brightest spot possible (East or West window).
Watering
▾Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Abutilon has a high transpiration rate due to its soft leaves; if the soil dries out completely, the plant will wilt quickly. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Feeding & Fertilization
▾A heavy feeder! Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (like 19-19-19) every 2 weeks during the growing season. For maximum blooms, use a high-potassium "Bloom Booster" once a month. Ensure the soil is moist before fertilizing to avoid root burn.
Pruning & Shaping
▾'Nabob' is a vigorous grower. Tip-prune young plants to encourage branching and a bushier habit. You can hard-prune in early spring to maintain a specific size or shape, as it flowers on new wood.
🌿 Growth Habit & Structure
Abutilon 'Nabob' has an upright, slightly arching habit that can reach 5-6 feet if left unpruned. Its velvety, maple-like foliage provides a beautiful backdrop to the dark stems and blood-red flowers. For a denser look, keep it pinched back; for a more dramatic tree-like "standard" look, prune away lower branches and stake the main stem.
Yellowing Lower Leaves
▾Usually indicates overwatering or poor drainage. Check if the pot is sitting in water. It can also be a sign of nitrogen deficiency if the yellowing is widespread.
Drooping/Wilting Foliage
▾Abutilons "faint" when thirsty. Check the soil immediately. If the soil is wet but the plant is wilting, it may be heat stress; move it to a cooler, shaded spot during peak sun hours.
Sticky Residue on Leaves
▾Likely Aphids or Whiteflies. These pests love the soft growth of Abutilon. Treat with Neem oil spray or an insecticidal soap, ensuring you hit the undersides of the leaves thoroughly.
📋 Quick Plant Profile
| Botanical Name | Abutilon x hybridum 'Nabob' |
| Common Name | Flowering Maple, Chinese Lantern |
| Flower Color | Deep Crimson / Dark Red |
| Light Requirements | Bright Indirect / Part Shade |
| Watering | Moderate-High (Keep soil moist) |
| Growth Habit | Upright Shrub (up to 5-6 ft) |
| Temperature | 15°C–30°C (Avoid extreme heat/frost) |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
Size Details
1 Abutilon 'Nabob' - Flowering Maple
Size:
(Plant sizes may vary slightly based on seasonal growth, individual plant characteristics, and current stock.)
Care Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Light:
Water:
Growing Media:
Feeding & Fertilization:
Shipping & Delivery
We ship plants within 3-4 days after placing the order if we have them in stock. If not, we’ll email you with the details. Learn More
Replacement
If your plant dies during transit, please contact us with proof, including an unboxing video, and we'll replace it for free. Learn More