Pavonia or Triplochlamis

More than 170 species native to South America, Africa and Asia. Pavonia (new name - Triplochlamis multiflora) is a rare plant of the mallow family. Pavonia multiflora – Pavonia multiflora is native to Brazil and is the only species grown in home collections. It is rare largely because of the difficulty of propagation (cuttings root very slowly, in a greenhouse, at a soil temperature of at least 30-35 °C, using phytohormones), and also because it tends to grow as a single stem, reluctantly producing side shoots even after pruning.

Nevertheless, it blooms beautifully, like all mallows, abundantly and for a long time, as long as shoots are growing, new leaves are forming, and with them flower buds. The plant requires good lighting, except for direct sunlight; it can grow in partial shade but will bloom reluctantly, and buds may drop without opening. During the growing season the soil must be kept consistently moist. Allowing it to dry out is unacceptable. Daily misting is desirable.

This plant performs best in a greenhouse or a "flower window," since its cultivation requires high air humidity. However, it is possible to try to grow this shrub with red flowers on a windowsill. Use any methods to increase air humidity, for example, set the pot with the plant into moist granulate.

In winter the temperature should not fall below 13-15 °C. Watering is reduced, but the soil should still not be allowed to dry out, only the top layer. After the end of the growing season the plant should be pruned back thoroughly.

Location: bright in winter and summer but not in direct sunlight; kept indoors. In winter maintain a temperature not lower than 15 °C.

Light: bright light

Watering: in summer – moderate with soft water at room temperature; in winter – limited according to the indoor temperature.

Air humidity: use any methods to increase humidity, for example, set the pot with the plant into moist granulate.

Propagation: by apical cuttings, which root only in a propagation greenhouse at a soil temperature not below 30 °C and using preparations that stimulate root formation. Amateur gardeners will encounter great difficulties when propagating Pavonia.