Urena lobata
Urena lobata · Malvaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around urena lobata and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Urena, Lobed urena
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Form
- Shrub
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen to deciduous depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn (pink-mauve flowers)
- Adult size
- 1 to 2 m tall × 1 to 1.5 m wide
- Hardiness
- Tropical to subtropical; frost-sensitive
- Origin
- Tropical Africa and intertropical regions
Care
Light
Place lobed urena in full sun or partial shade to encourage abundant flowering. It tolerates hot, sunny positions but appreciates light shade in very hot climates. Avoid overly shaded spots, which reduce flower production.
Watering
Keep the substrate regularly moist but well-drained during active growth. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy. Avoid waterlogging, which promotes root rot. Water at the base preferably to limit the risk of leaf moisture.
Soil
Prefer rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Incorporate compost or organic matter when planting to improve structure and fertility. Good drainage is essential to prevent fungal problems.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring-summer). You can use a formula slightly higher in phosphorus to support flowering. Stop or drastically reduce feeding in autumn-winter.
Pruning
Prune lightly after flowering or in late winter to maintain a compact, dense form. Remove dead or poorly positioned branches. Regular pruning encourages branching and better floral coverage the following year.
Diseases and pests
Watch for spider mites and whiteflies in warm, dry conditions. Excess moisture can promote leaf spots or rot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid repeated foliage watering.
Did you know?
Urena lobata is traditionally used in African medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, although modern science continues to study its active compounds. Its name 'lobata' refers to the characteristic lobed shape of its leaves, which resembles an open palm. It is a robust pioneer plant capable of rapidly colonizing disturbed land in tropical environments.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Crimean lindenTilia euchlora
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.