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Description
Beautiful and Versatile Perennial
Common Names: Manzanilla, Turk's Cap, Mexican Apple, Wax Mallow, Drummond’s Wax Mallow
Family: Malvaceae
Origin: Southern United States, Mexico, Central America
Manzanilla (Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii), also known as Turk's Cap or Mexican Apple, is a hardy, perennial shrub known for its vibrant, showy flowers and versatility in the garden. The unique, tightly coiled red flowers resemble a turban or cap, making them stand out in any landscape. Blooming from spring to fall, Manzanilla attracts pollinators such as hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, while its edible fruit and flowers make it a valuable plant for both ornamental and practical purposes.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Flowers: The bright red, tightly coiled flowers resemble a turban or cap, making them a unique addition to the garden. Unlike other hibiscus species, the petals of Manzanilla remain curled and never fully open. These flowers attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies and bloom for an extended period from spring to fall.
Fruit: The plant produces small, apple-like edible fruits that are often referred to as "manzanilla," meaning "little apple." The fruits can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies.
Foliage: Manzanilla has broad, dark green, heart-shaped leaves, which add texture and color to the landscape year-round.
Growth Habit: This perennial shrub can grow up to 4-10 feet tall, depending on the climate and conditions, and forms a dense, bushy structure that works well in hedges, borders, or as a standalone feature.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
The small, apple-like fruits of Manzanilla are edible and can be eaten fresh, made into jellies, or used in beverages. The flowers, too, can be used to make herbal teas, which are traditionally consumed for their mild sedative properties. In some cultures, the plant is also used in traditional medicine to help treat minor ailments like digestive issues and inflammation.
