Sphaeralcea ambigua
Apricot Mallow
Description
This native perennial has a relaxed sprawling form. It usually has light orange flowers but can be white, pink or purple. It starts to look rangy after flowering, so cut to 6" above ground for a fresh start. Leaves are small, grayish green, and 3 lobed. This extremely drought and soil tolerant shrub does best in full sun, even in reflected heat. This is the most drought tolerant of Sphaeralceas and the largest, with up to 100 stems from a single root. Some folks have allergic reaction to the leaves.
Sun
Full
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Allergenic, Attracts Bees
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.