Palmer's abutilon
Abutilon palmeri
Care
full sun
low
Fast; Dry rocky, well draining soil.
3–8ft tall , 3–5ft wide
Mar-May
Evergreen
Desert washes and scrub in southeastern California (Inyo, Kern, and San Bernardino Counties), 1000-4000 ft elevation, extending to Arizona and Mexico.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Palmer's abutilon in full sun with fast-draining, rocky or sandy soil - this is non-negotiable for success in the Bay Area. Choose a spot with excellent drainage; if your soil is heavy clay, amend generously with coarse sand and gravel or plant in a container where you control the soil mix. Plant in spring for best establishment, spacing according to your mature size preference (3–8 feet tall).
After Planting
Water weekly for the first summer to establish the plant, then taper off to occasional light watering once established - aim for no more than once a month in summer thereafter. The biggest mistake is overwatering; this desert native rots quickly in soggy soil, so err on the dry side. Expect cup-shaped flowers in spring (March–May) and minimal fussing - this plant is genuinely easy to grow once it's settled in.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Sonoran bumblebee, California candidate
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Early season nectar source for colony establishment
Primary spring forager on abutilon flowers
Pollinator visitor during flowering
Specialist pollen forager on abutilon
Spring bloom season specialist
Pollen collector during bloom period