Abutilon palmeri - Palmer's Mallow

Description

A native of the most southwestern part of our state- Peninsular Ranges and the western edge of the Sonoran Desert.  This shrub grows about 4' x 5', and as you might guess, loves a hot and dry situation.  Sunny golden flowers proliferate from spring into summer against a mass of felty silver foliage.  Leaves are lobed, as is generally true with mallows, but acuminate.  Considered semi-evergreen, as the late summer heat can push it into crispy territory.  Deadhead and prune as needed to keep it looking neat.  Can handle temps down to 25 degrees if infrequent, though tip growth may die back.