Abutilon x hybridum is an evergreen shrub that is valued for its lovely pendulous, brightly coloured, bell-shaped flowers that look like little lanterns, hence the common name.
The plant has an erect and open habit and the leaves are palmately lobed, mid-green or variegated.
While they can tolerate shaded positions, the plant tends to be more straggly and have less flowers.
These are popular in gardens due to their very pretty 'Chinese Lantern' style flowers which come in a wide variety of cultivar colours.
Cultivars include:
'Nabob' -Red, 'Golden Fleece' - yellow,
'Kentish Belle' and 'Orange King' - orange,
'Boule de Neige' - white,
'Pink Lady' - pink,
'Souvenir de Bonn' - orange flowers with red veins and variegated leaves.
'Ashford Red' - Deep red