Thompson's Flowering Maple - 1 Gallon

Thompson's Flowering Maple (Abutilon pictum 'Thompsonii') is a vigorous, upright, evergreen shrub belonging to the mallow family (Malvaceae). Its deeply lobed, 5- to 9-lobed leaves closely resemble those of a maple tree and are a shiny dark green boldly mottled and speckled with golden-yellow variegation — a trait caused by a naturally occurring viral mosaic that produces the striking foliage pattern without harming the plant. The pendant, bell-shaped flowers are produced in generous abundance on long, arching stalks and display rich salmon-pink petals flushed with coral-orange and traced with prominent red veins, very much resembling decorative Chinese paper lanterns. This cultivar has been cherished in gardens since it was first introduced into England from Brazil in the 1860s and subsequently named and published by Harry James Veitch in 1868. It is a recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society, a testament to its outstanding ornamental performance and reliability in the garden.

In the ground in frost-free or sheltered locations, Thompson's Flowering Maple can achieve its full height of 6 to 10 feet over several seasons. Container-grown plants and those in cooler microclimates typically remain more compact. Regular tip-pinching keeps the plant bushier and more manageable. Note that stems can be somewhat brittle, so a sheltered site protected from strong winds is recommended.

Thompson's Flowering Maple is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 10, tolerating temperatures down to approximately 20-25 degrees F. In Southern Oregon and Northern California, it performs exceptionally well in the warmer zones and sheltered microclimates of Zone 8 and thrives fully in Zones 9 and 10. In borderline Zone 8 areas, planting against a south- or west-facing wall provides valuable reflected warmth and wind protection. Even if the top growth experiences frost damage, established plants often resprout vigorously from the base when temperatures drop only briefly below their threshold. Container-grown plants can be moved to a frost-protected garage, greenhouse, or covered patio during cold snaps for reliable overwintering.

Thompson's Flowering Maple thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the best flower production and most vibrant variegated foliage color, a site receiving at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sun per day is ideal. In the hotter interior valleys of Northern California and Southern Oregon, afternoon shade is beneficial — morning sun with filtered afternoon shade often produces the most lush, healthy plants. Along the coast, it can handle nearly full sun all day. When grown indoors or on a covered patio, place it in the brightest available location, such as directly in front of a south- or west-facing window or doorway.

• Prefers rich, well-drained soil with a loamy to sandy loam texture.
• Tolerates chalk, loam, and sandy soils, provided drainage is adequate — soggy or waterlogged conditions should be avoided.
• Optimal soil pH range is 5.5 to 6.5 (mildly acidic to neutral), though it adapts reasonably well to slightly alkaline conditions.
• Amending native soil with quality compost or aged organic matter at planting time greatly improves moisture retention and overall plant vigor.
• Good drainage is the single most important soil requirement; raised beds or mounded planting sites are helpful in heavier clay soils.

Thompson's Flowering Maple performs best with regular, even moisture during the active growing season (spring through fall). Water deeply and allow the top inch or two of soil to approach dryness before watering again — consistent soil moisture without waterlogging is the goal. During the hottest summer months, supplemental irrigation is important, especially for in-ground plants in interior climates. This plant is not truly drought tolerant, though established plants in cooler coastal gardens can manage with less frequent irrigation. In winter, reduce watering significantly, allowing the soil to dry somewhat between waterings. Container-grown plants dry out faster than in-ground plants and will need more frequent monitoring, particularly during warm weather. Always water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage to reduce disease risk.

To support vigorous growth and prolific flowering, fertilize Thompson's Flowering Maple regularly during the growing season from early spring through late summer. A balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer (such as a 10-10-10 or similar formulation) applied in early spring gives the plant a strong seasonal start. Monthly applications of a liquid balanced fertilizer or one slightly higher in phosphorus and potassium (to encourage blooming rather than excess leafy growth) throughout the active season keep the flowers coming. Avoid heavy nitrogen-only fertilizers, which can stimulate lush foliage at the expense of flower production. Cease fertilizing in fall to allow the plant to slow its growth naturally before any cold weather. Container plants, which are watered more frequently and thus lose nutrients faster, benefit from fertilization every two to three weeks during the growing season.

Thompson's Flowering Maple is a naturally fast-growing shrub that benefits from regular light pruning to maintain an attractive, bushy form. Pinching out the stem tips throughout the growing season encourages dense branching and maximizes flower bud production. More significant shaping and size-reduction pruning is best performed in late winter to early spring, just before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches at this time to improve air circulation and the overall structure of the plant. Because stems can be somewhat brittle, it is wise to periodically remove any weak or thin growth that might be prone to wind breakage. The plant responds well to harder cutting back if it becomes leggy or overgrown, readily pushing new growth from older wood. Regular deadheading of spent blooms is not strictly necessary but can keep the plant tidy and may extend the flowering season.

1. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and good air circulation, sheltered from strong prevailing winds.
2. Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the root ball and approximately the same depth, so the top of the root ball sits at or just slightly above the surrounding soil grade.
3. Amend the backfill soil with quality compost or planting mix (approximately 25-30% by volume) to improve fertility and drainage.
4. Remove the plant gently from its container, loosen any circling roots, and position it in the center of the hole with the best-facing side forward.
5. Backfill with the amended soil, firming lightly in layers to eliminate air pockets. Do not bury the crown of the plant.
6. Build a low soil berm around the drip line to form a watering basin, and water deeply and slowly to thoroughly settle the root zone.
7. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch (such as shredded bark or compost) around the base, keeping it several inches away from the main stem to prevent rot.
8. Water regularly for the first growing season to establish a strong root system before easing to a more routine irrigation schedule.

Thompson's Flowering Maple offers outstanding multi-season ornamental interest. Its boldly variegated foliage — dark green leaves liberally splashed with golden-yellow — provides eye-catching color every month of the year, even when not in active bloom. Flowering begins in mid-spring and continues through summer and well into fall, with the dangling coral-orange and salmon-pink lantern blooms at their most prolific during the warm months. In the mild winter climates of Northern California and the warmer parts of Southern Oregon, sporadic blooming can persist even through the cooler months. The plant's evergreen nature means there is no unsightly bare period, and the glowing foliage provides warm color contrast in the winter garden when many other shrubs have gone dormant.

• Accent Shrub: Use as a bold, freestanding focal point in mixed shrub borders or garden beds where the vivid foliage commands attention.
• Back-of-Border Specimen: Its upright 6- to 10-foot stature makes it an ideal backdrop plant behind lower-growing perennials and flowering shrubs.
• Espalier: Easily trained flat against a warm, sun-facing wall or fence, creating a dramatic architectural feature while maximizing heat reflection and protection.
• Patio and Deck Container: A spectacular container specimen for bright patios, entryways, and outdoor living areas, bringing tropical flair to any outdoor space.
• Courtyard and City Gardens: Well-suited to enclosed courtyard gardens, urban gardens, and Mediterranean-style landscapes where warmth is reflected from hardscape surfaces.
• Cottage and Informal Gardens: Its relaxed, arching form and exuberant blooming habit blend beautifully into informal cottage garden designs.
• Wall-Side Border: Thrives when planted close to a south- or west-facing wall where it benefits from additional warmth and wind protection in Zone 8 areas.
• Indoor/Conservatory Plant: In cooler climates or during winter, it performs beautifully as a large indoor specimen in bright rooms, sunrooms, or conservatories.

Thompson's Flowering Maple pairs beautifully with plants that complement its tropical, vibrant aesthetic. Consider combining it with the following:

• Canna Lily — bold, tropical foliage in reds, oranges, and yellows echoes the warm flower tones of the Abutilon.
• Lantana — a fellow hummingbird and butterfly magnet with complementary warm-toned blooms that thrives in the same Zone 8-10 conditions.
• Salvia guaranitica or Salvia greggii — the deep blues and reds of ornamental salvias create a stunning contrast with the coral-orange Abutilon blooms.
• Agapanthus — cool blue-purple summer blooms provide elegant contrast to the warm flower tones and variegated foliage.
• Phormium (New Zealand Flax) — bold, sword-like foliage in bronzes and reds provides strong architectural contrast to the Abutilon's softer, arching form.
• Bougainvillea — in the warmest California gardens, the vibrant magenta bracts of Bougainvillea create a dazzling tropical combination.
• Fuchsia — shade-tolerant and also featuring pendant blooms, Fuchsia makes a natural companion in partially shaded spots.

Thompson's Flowering Maple is generally a robust and trouble-free plant, but like most garden shrubs, it can occasionally attract the following pests and diseases:

• Whiteflies: The most common pest on Abutilon, whiteflies congregate on the undersides of leaves and can cause yellowing and weakening of the plant. Control with yellow sticky traps, insecticidal soap sprays, or neem oil. Good air circulation helps reduce infestations. Encouraging natural predators such as parasitic wasps is an excellent long-term strategy.
• Spider Mites: Most problematic in hot, dry conditions or on indoor plants. Look for stippled, yellowing leaves and fine webbing. Increase humidity, rinse foliage with water regularly, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
• Mealybugs: White, cottony clusters found at stem joints and leaf axils. Remove by hand with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or treat with insecticidal soap.
• Scale Insects: Can appear as small bumps on stems and foliage. Treat with horticultural oil during the crawler stage or use a systemic insecticide for heavy infestations.
• Aphids: Occasionally cluster on new growth. A strong blast of water from a hose or an application of insecticidal soap is usually sufficient control.
• Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure excellent soil drainage and allow the soil to partially dry between waterings to avoid this issue.

Note: The distinctive yellow leaf variegation of 'Thompsonii' is the result of a naturally occurring mosaic virus that does not cause harm to the plant and is not a disease concern.

Thompson's Flowering Maple is an outstanding container plant and has been prized as one since Victorian times, when it was a showpiece in bright conservatories and summered outdoors on patios and terraces. Choose a container that is generously sized — at least 15 to 20 inches in diameter — with ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix enriched with compost. Container plants dry out faster than in-ground plants, so check soil moisture frequently and water deeply when the top inch or two of the mix feels dry. Fertilize every two to three weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to compensate for nutrients lost through frequent watering. Position containers in a bright location receiving at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sun daily. In Zone 8 areas of Southern Oregon, move containers to a frost-protected garage, greenhouse, or bright indoor location when temperatures threaten to drop below 25 degrees F. Repot every two to three years or when roots begin to crowd the container, stepping up to the next size pot with fresh potting mix.

Thompson's Flowering Maple is a celebrated wildlife plant, particularly prized for its ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The pendant, tubular bell-shaped flowers are perfectly designed for hummingbird feeding, and the plant's extended blooming season from spring through fall provides a reliable nectar source throughout the active season. Butterflies — especially swallowtails and other large species — are frequently observed visiting the blooms. Bees also forage on the flowers, adding to the plant's value as a pollinator-supporting garden plant. Planting Thompson's Flowering Maple near other nectar-rich plants such as Salvia, Lantana, and Agapanthus creates a rich, multi-species pollinator corridor that benefits the broader garden ecosystem.

Thompson's Flowering Maple is readily propagated vegetatively to preserve the cultivar's distinctive golden-variegated foliage. Seed-grown plants will not reliably reproduce the characteristic leaf markings.

• Softwood Cuttings (Spring): Take 4- to 6-inch tip cuttings from actively growing, non-flowering shoots. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel, and insert into a moist, well-draining propagation mix. Keep warm (65-75 degrees F) and in bright indirect light. Roots typically develop within 3 to 5 weeks.
• Semi-Ripe Cuttings (Summer): Similar technique using slightly firmer, partially matured stem material. These root reliably and produce sturdy transplants by fall.
• Rooting Environment: Covering cuttings loosely with a clear plastic bag or placing them in a humidity tent helps maintain moisture around the cutting while roots develop. Remove the cover once new growth is observed.