Modiolastrum lateritium
Modiolastrum lateritium · Malvaceae
📷 Dinkum · CC BY-SA 3.0
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant modiolastrum lateritium: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Modiolastrum lateritium
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Adult height
- 60 cm
- Flowering
- June to August
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Water requirement
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Moderate, prefers temperate to warm climates
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Short-lived plant (5-7 years in optimal conditions) but tough. Very well-drained soil, sunny exposure, moderate watering in summer only.
The common mistake
Overprotecting it in winter in cold climates (thick mulch, fleece); it prefers dry air and freezes less quickly in dry soil than waterlogged soil.
The pro's trick
Sow seeds every year in April in pots: you'll get flowers from June-July without waiting for old plants, and you'll renew the natural cycle.
Care
Exposure
Place this plant in full sun for generous and colorful blooming. It also tolerates partial shade in very hot climates, but will flower less abundantly. Protect it from strong winds that could damage its delicate stems.
Watering
Water regularly during the growth and flowering period to keep the soil moderately moist, without letting it become waterlogged. In summer, increase frequency during prolonged dry periods. Reduce watering in winter if the plant persists.
Soil and planting
Prefer well-drained, light and fertile soil for better growth. Universal potting soil enriched with compost works perfectly. Avoid compact or chalky soils that could slow down development.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer once or twice a month during the flowering period to support flower production. Moderate application is sufficient; excess nitrogen would favor foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young plants to encourage branching and achieve a bushier shape. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Light pruning in late summer can help rejuvenate the plant.
Diseases and pests
Watch for aphids and whiteflies in humid climates. Excessive moisture can promote rot or fungal diseases; ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid stagnant humidity.
Did you know?
Modiolastrum lateritium belongs to the Malvaceae family, the same as hollyhocks and hibiscus. Native to South America, its name evokes its earthen-colored flowers (lateritium meaning 'brick-colored'), a rare and remarkable hue in the world of modern ornamental flowers.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Small-leaved limeTilia cordata
- Rose of SharonHibiscus syriacus
- Marsh mallowAlthaea officinalis
- Silver LimeTilia tomentosa
- Crimean lindenTilia euchlora
- Swamp hibiscusHibiscus moscheutos
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.