Common Name:

General Information

Corynabutilon × suntense is a vigorous, evergreen, much-branched shrub that can grow up to 5 metres tall[, ].
The plant is often cultivated in gardens, being valued especially for its abundant floral display - with the added bonus that these flowers are edible.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

A hybrid of garden origin, Corynabutilon ochsenii x Corynabutilon vitifolium.

Habitat

Not known in the wild.

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	8.00 m
Growth Rate	Fast
Cultivation Status	Ornamental

Cultivation Details

Corynabutilon × suntense is a hybrid plant of garden origin that can be grown outdoors in the milder regions of the temperate zone. It can tolerate occasional temperatures down to between -5 to -10°c, especially when given the protection of a warm, sunny, sheltered wall, and is probably hardier than either of its parents[, ]. Plants are often deciduous in cold winters[]. A deep mulch in winter and tying in growth to the wall will maximise protection in winter[]. If the plant is cut back by cold weather, it will normally resprout from the base in the spring and can flower on the current year's growth[].
Requires a sunny position or part day shade in a fertile well-drained soil[]. Dislikes drought[].
Plants grow very rapidly for their first few years and need staking if they are not in a sheltered position[].
Plants tend to be short-lived in cultivation, dying suddenly without any apparent cause. This is probably because they flower so profusely that they die of exhaustion[]. Dead-heading plants to prevent seeding can enhance longevity[].
Tip-prune young plants to promote a bushy habit, older plants can be cut back hard annually in spring if required[].
There are some named forms, selected for their ornamental value[, ].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[].

Edible Uses

Flowers - raw[]. The flowers are up to 6cm in diameter[]. A mild flavour with a slight sweetness and pleasant mucilaginous texture[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse[]. Germination should take place within a few weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots. Grow them on for at least the first winter in a greenhouse and plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Although this species is a hybrid, seedlings are usually true to type[].
Cuttings of young shoots, early summer in a frame[]. Grow on in the greenhouse for their first winter and plant out in spring after the last expected frosts.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, mid summer in a frame[]. Grow on in the greenhouse for their first winter and plant out in spring after the last expected frosts.