Abutilon x suntense

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse^[2]. Germination should take place within a few weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots. Grow them on for at least the first winter in a greenhouse and plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Although this species is a hybrid, seedlings are usually true to type^[3].

Cuttings of young shoots, June in a frame^[2]. Grow on in the greenhouse for their first winter and plant out in spring after the last expected frosts.

Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame^[2]. Grow on in the greenhouse for their first winter and plant out in spring after the last expected frosts.

Requires a sunny position or part day shade in a fertile well-drained soil^[2]. Dislikes drought^[2].

This species is only hardy in the mildest areas of Britain, tolerating temperatures down to between -5 to -10°c when given the protection of a south or south-west facing wall^[4][2]. It is probably hardier than either of its parents^[4]. Plants are often deciduous in cold winters^[1]. A deep mulch in winter and tying in growth to the wall will maximise protection in winter^[2]. If the plant is cut back by cold weather, it will normally resprout from the base in the spring and can flower on the current year's growth^[5]. Plants grow very rapidly for their first few years and need staking if they are not in a sheltered position^[4]. Plants tend to be short-lived in Britain, dying suddenly without any apparent cause. This is probably because they flower so profusely that they die of exhaustion^[4]. Dead-heading plants to prevent seeding can enhance longevity^[2]. Tip-prune young plants to promote a bushy habit, older plants can be cut back hard annually in spring if required^[2]. There are some named forms, selected for their ornamental value^[4][2].

Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus^[2].