Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii

Turk’s Cap                                                    

In Texas, Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii is a must have for a summer garden. Commonly referred to as Turk’s Cap, its summertime shine trumps the competition providing a garden with a dash of color and lush green foliage with no irrigation. While every Texan dreads this time of year this Texas native doesn’t seem to sweat.

September is almost here and after battling the summer’s heat there is no better time to evaluate a plant’s durability. Fortuitously, Turk’s Cap is drought-tolerant and thrives in a hundred plus weather bringing a summer garden to life. Its attractive heart-shaped foliage and fiery flowers flourish through sizzling temperatures. Watch as hummingbirds and butterflies collect its sweet nectar.

The Turk’s Cap’s versatility makes it a gardener’s favorite. This southeast native is well adept to a wide range of environments from marshlands to well drained and rocky. It grows naturally from South Carolina, to west Texas, down into Cuba, and everywhere in between. No wonder Texans love Turk’s Cap, simply plant it in dry, wet, sunny, or shady conditions and watch it blaze effortlessly through the summer.

Thomas Drummond, a Scottish botanist, was exploring the South when he discovered Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii; as a result, this Texas variety was named in his honor. The common name, Turk’s Cap, is derived from its unorthodox flower, a tiny, spiraled, closed flower resembling a fez, the traditional red Turkish hat.

Turk’s Cap is a rarity, pleasantly unique and easy to work with making it the perfect summer shrub. However, It’s vigor and durability does come with a cost. It can be considered invasive, but do not let that discourage you. Use it to your advantage and plant it in the back or in places where you have had trouble getting plants to perform in the past. Do not plant close to weaklings or pathways. In time you will learn how contain and understand why it is a must have for the Texas gardener. Xeriscape with Turk’s Cap to create a Texas oasis using the plant’s natural beauty to bring a garden to life. The humming birds will thank you.