Sphaeralcea angustifolia is a species of flowering plant in the mallow family known by the common names copper globemallow and narrow-leaved globemallow. It is native to the southwestern United States as well as northern and central Mexico, where it grows in desert and plateau habitat. It produces many erect stems, approaching three meters in maximum height. It is woolly or felt-like in texture. The gray-green leaf blades are lance-shaped and measure up to about 5 cm long. They have wavy or slightly lobed edges. The leafy inflorescence bears several flowers each with five wedge-shaped orange petals just under 1 cm in length, and yellow anthers.
Copper globemallow has strong resistance to disease and is generally not likely to suffer from illnesses. Still, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment. When infections do occur, they are typically mild. Regarding upkeep, this plant needs a moderate level of care. It should be pruned regularly to preserve a neat appearance and healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also encourage better flowering. Copper globemallow is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive plant-care experience. It may need more attention if grown indoors.
How to keep Sphaeralcea Angustifolia.
Light
Copper globemallow requires plenty of sunlight on its leaves to grow healthily. At every stage of development it can thrive when given ample light. In its native habitat it is exposed to strong, unfiltered light. However, take care: excessive exposure can damage the plant, while too little light can stunt its growth.
Water
Copper globemallow, a plant native to arid regions, is exceptionally drought-tolerant and thrives in low-moisture environments. It needs to be watered weekly and prefers full sunlight. For optimal growth, it benefits from well-draining soil that mimics its natural dry habitat, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping projects.
Temperature
Copper globemallow comes from climates where preferred temperatures range from 59 to 89.6 °F (15 to 32 ℃). Bringing conditions into its native temperature range can improve its overall growth.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Copper globemallow is in early spring, as it emerges from dormancy and begins active growth. Fertilizing supplies essential nutrients needed for healthy growth. Although Copper globemallow has relatively low fertilizer requirements, an annual application can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting flowers.
Pruning
To promote healthy growth and blooming, prune the copper globemallow in early to late spring. Remove up to one-third of its growth to prevent stress while shaping the plant and trimming away dead stems. Regular pruning enhances airflow, controls the plant's size, and prevents disease, ensuring a vibrant appearance throughout the growing season.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Sphaeralcea
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8
- Mature Height
- 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Blue
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Purple, Red, Orange
- Flower Size
- 1.27 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Fall, Early winter
- Native Area
- Mexico
Other names.
Reader questions.
What are the sunlight requirements for Copper globemallow?
Copper globemallow requires over 6 hours of sunlight to maintain healthy growth. It's essential to observe the movement of sunlight through your garden and place these plants in areas that offer a balance of light and shade. This care strategy ensures the plants are happy and thriving. In its natural habitat, Copper globemallow is accustomed to bountiful, unfiltered sunlight. However, gardeners should be cautious, as too much direct exposure can harm the plant, while too little can stunt its growth.
What is the ideal temperature range for Copper globemallow?
Copper globemallow, known botanically as Sphaeralcea angustifolia, thrives in climates with ideal temperatures ranging between 59 to 89.6°F (15 to 32°C). Adapting to its native temperature can significantly enhance its overall growth. It's important to ensure that the plant is nurtured within this temperature range for optimal development.
How can artificial lighting benefit indoor Copper globemallow plants?
Indoor Copper globemallow plants benefit significantly from adequate artificial lighting, especially when natural sunlight is insufficient, like during winter or in less sunny indoor spaces. Artificial lights, such as LED lights, are favored for their ability to mimic natural sunlight and can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths needed by the plant. For optimal growth, full sun plants require 30-50W per square foot, partial sun plants need 20-30W per square foot, and full shade plants should have 10-20W per square foot. The light source should be placed 12-36 inches above the plant, and the duration should mimic natural daylight hours, usually 8-12 hours per day.
Does Copper globemallow require frost protection during winter?
Copper globemallow possesses strong cold resistance and generally does not require special frost protection measures during winter. However, if winter temperatures are expected to fall below -10°C, it's important to take precautions to protect the plant from cold. This can be done by covering the plant with materials such as soil or straw. Additionally, before the first freeze in autumn, watering the plant abundantly to keep the soil moist helps prevent drought and water scarcity during winter and early spring.
What are the signs of improper lighting for Copper globemallow?
Signs of improper lighting in Copper globemallow include smaller new leaves, leggy or sparse growth due to increased space between leaves or stems, faster leaf drop, slower or halted new growth, and discoloration such as lighter-colored or yellow (chlorosis) leaves. Excessive sunlight can lead to sunscald, which damages plant tissue, leaf curling as a defense mechanism against too much light, wilting due to excessive water loss, and leaf scorching characterized by brown, dry, and crispy leaf edges. These symptoms indicate that the plant's light conditions need adjustment.
How does Copper globemallow react to temperatures below 15°C?
Copper globemallow is cold-tolerant, functioning best when temperatures remain above 15°C. During winter, it is critical to ensure that the temperature does not fall below -5°C. If the temperature drops below -10°C, there might not be immediate noticeable changes during winter; however, it can lead to a decrease in sprouting or a complete lack of sprouting during spring. To address this, in spring, any parts of the plant that have failed to sprout should be removed.
How can you address lighting issues for Copper globemallow?
To address lighting issues for Copper globemallow, slowly acclimate the plant to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for outdoor plants. This can be achieved by moving the plant to progressively sunnier spots each week. For indoor plants or those too large to move easily, using artificial light such as desk lamps or professional grow lights for at least 8 hours a day can provide needed light. Reducing obstructions like tree branches to allow more sunlight and transplanting to a spot with better light and drainage are effective strategies. Although parts of the plant affected by poor light might not recover, ensuring adequate light moving forward will promote healthy new growth.
What should be done if Copper globemallow experiences temperatures above 32°C?
During summer, it's crucial to keep Copper globemallow's temperature below 32°C. Exposure to temperatures exceeding 35°C can cause the leaves to lighten in color, become prone to curling, suffer from sunburn, and in severe cases, lead to the entire plant wilting and drying up. To mitigate these effects, trim away any sunburned and dried parts of the plant. Moving the plant to a shaded area away from midday and afternoon sun, or using a shade cloth, can protect it. Additionally, watering the plant in the morning and evening will help keep the soil moist and cool the plant.
