The Story
Plant Bio
Fools Gold is a striking cultivar of Abutilon megapotamicum known for its vibrant yellow flowers and attractive foliage.
This cultivar features golden-yellow blooms with a unique tendency to produce a more compact habit than standard varieties.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable climates
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, about 6 weeks.
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Pro Tip
Use a warm, sunny spot with well-draining soil for optimal growth and flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Ensure the plant receives plenty of sunlight ☀️
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist
- Prune to shape and remove dead or damaged branches
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not plant in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil
- Refrain from pruning in late fall or winter
- Don’t neglect pest monitoring
- Avoid excessive fertilization which can cause legginess
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fool's Gold Flowering Maple questions
What zones can Fool's Gold Flowering Maple grow in?
Fool's Gold Flowering Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Fool's Gold Flowering Maple deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Fool's Gold Flowering Maple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Fool's Gold Flowering Maple bloom?
Fool's Gold Flowering Maple typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fool's Gold Flowering Maple need full sun?
Fool's Gold Flowering Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Abutilon to compare
Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern
Abutilon megapotamicum
Trailing Abutilon
Abutilon megapotamicum 'Ines'
David's Red Flowering Maple
Abutilon x hybrida 'David's Red'
Voodoo Trailing Abutilon
Abutilon megapotamicum 'Voodoo'
Redvein Abutilon
Abutilon striatum
Flowering Maple
Abutilon theophrasti 'Talini's Pink'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Fool's Gold Flowering Maple with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.