Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii, commonly known as Turk’s Cap or Drummond’s Mallow, is a semi-evergreen shrub native to a variety of habitats including forest edges, open woodlands, and riverbanks in the southern United States and Mexico. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, with a dense, rounded form. The plant is known for its distinctive red, turban-shaped flowers that bloom prolifically from summer to fall, adding a splash of color to the garden. The flowers are showy and are followed by spherical, red fruits that persist into winter, providing additional visual interest.

Turk’s Cap is appreciated for its low maintenance requirements, tolerance of heat and humidity, and its ability to thrive in partial shade. It is often used in border plantings, as an understory shrub in woodland gardens, or for naturalizing in informal settings. This plant is particularly valuable for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a favorite in wildlife gardens. It prefers moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to a range of soil conditions, including clay. While it can tolerate short periods of drought once established, regular watering promotes optimal growth and flowering.CC BY-SA 4.0