Sparrmannia africana
African hemp
A vigorous evergreen shrub to 6m or more, with large, broadly ovate, shallowly lobed leaves and clusters of white flowers 3.5cm across, with red and yellow stamens
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red White Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red White Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Skin irritant - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Sparrmannia are large evergreen shrubs or small trees, with simple or palmately lobed, ovate leaves and umbels of 4-petalled, white or purple flowers with prominent stamens
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- South Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost in full light. Grow outdoors in moist but well-drained soil in sheltered frost-free area
Propagation
Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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