In the world of ornamental plants, the Tiger Eye Flowering Maple (Abutilon × hybridum ‘Tiger Eye’) is a testament to the artistic beauty that nature can bestow upon us. With its vibrant, bell-shaped flowers resembling delicate lanterns and striking foliage, the Tiger Eye Flowering Maple has become a favorite among gardeners and enthusiasts looking to adorn their spaces with a touch of exotic charm. In this article, we delve into the captivating world of the Tiger Eye Flowering Maple, exploring its appearance, characteristics, care, and the joy it brings to both indoor and outdoor settings.
Appearance and Characteristics
The Tiger Eye flowering maple is a hybrid cultivar resulting from the crossing of several Abutilon species. Renowned for its stunning and distinctive appearance, this plant features vibrant, pendant-shaped flowers that hang from its arching stems. The flowers resemble elegant lanterns, with their bell-shaped petals and an intriguing color palette that ranges from deep orange and deep red to golden and yellow hues.
The plant’s foliage is equally captivating, with variegated leaves that feature a mosaic of green, yellow, and cream hues. This foliage adds an extra layer of visual interest to the plant, even when it is not in bloom.
- Abutilon Color – Tiger Eye
The Abutilon ‘Tiger Eye’ flowering maple, also known as the Chinese lantern or parlor maple, is a cultivar known for its unique and striking coloration. The flowers of the Abutilon ‘Tiger Eye’ can vary in color, but are generally characterized by warm, rich hues that resemble the colors of the tiger’s eye gemstone. The most common colors you can find in the Abutilon ‘Tiger Eye’ cultivar include:
Orange: The flowers are typically shades of vibrant orange, resembling the fiery colors of the tiger’s eye stone.
Amber: Some varieties display deep amber hues, evoking the warm, glowing tones of the gemstone.
Golden Yellow: The flowers may also feature shades of bright golden yellow.
Reddish Brown: Some flowers may have hints of reddish brown, adding depth and complexity to the color palette.
Copper: Another possible coloration is a warm copper tone.
Abutilon ‘Tiger Eye’ flowering maple is prized for its attractive flowers, which are often accented by its distinctive maple-like leaves. The warm, earthy colors of this variety make it a captivating addition to gardens, containers, and indoor spaces. Keep in mind that flower colors can sometimes vary slightly depending on growing conditions and the specific clone or variety you are growing.
Garden and Indoor Growing
Tiger Eye flowering maples can thrive both as outdoor garden plants and as elegant indoor specimens. Here are some key considerations for growing these beauties:
Outdoor Gardening:
- Climate: Tiger Eye Flowering Maples thrive in temperate climates with mild winters. They are often grown as perennials in areas where temperatures don’t drop too low.
Light: Give them partial shade to filter sunlight. Avoid intense midday sun, which can burn their delicate foliage.
Soil: Plant in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning: Prune regularly to maintain shape, encourage bushy growth, and remove dead or spent flowers.Indoor Care:
Light: Place your Tiger Eye Flowering Maple near a bright, indirect light source, such as a window with filtered sunlight.
Temperature: Keep indoor temperatures between 60 and 75°F (15 and 24°C).
Humidity: These plants appreciate higher levels of humidity, so consider misting them or placing a humidity tray nearby.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Fertilizing: Feed your tiger eye flowering maple with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Cultural Significance and Elegance
Tiger’s Eye Flowering Maples are not only admired for their aesthetic beauty but also have cultural significance. Their exquisite flowers and intricate foliage add elegance to gardens, patios and interior spaces, capturing the essence of exotic charm. Whether grown for their vibrant color palette or ornamental leaves, these plants provide an artistic tapestry that engages the senses.
The Tiger Eye Flowering Maple, with its vibrant blooms and captivating foliage, invites us into a world of natural elegance and splendor. Its ability to thrive both indoors and outdoors, combined with its exotic appeal, has made it a highly prized choice among gardeners and plant enthusiasts. By growing and appreciating the Tiger Eye Flowering Maple, we celebrate the remarkable diversity of the plant kingdom and the everlasting beauty that adorns our homes and landscapes.
