The Story
Plant Bio
Abutilon megapotamicum, commonly known as the Brazilian bellflower, is a vigorous evergreen shrub or small tree, noted for its beautiful hanging orange and yellow flowers.
This species is particularly valued for its long flowering period and ability to attract hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Plant in well-drained soil with partial sun exposure for optimal growth.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushier growth.
- Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to boost soil nutrients and promote healthy flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
- Provide partial sun for optimal blooming
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full shade, as it reduces flowering
- Avoid heavy fertilization in winter
- Don’t neglect pruning, which encourages bushiness
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
Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern questions
What zones can Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern grow in?
Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern 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 Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern deer resistant?
Yes — Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern bloom?
Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern 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 Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern need full sun?
Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Abutilon to compare
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'
Canary Bird Trailing Abutilon
Abutilon megapotamicum 'Canary Bird'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Brazilian Bellflower Chinese Lantern 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.