The evergreen Anisodontea scabrosa is a bright, cheery shrub that exhibits blooms in varying shades
of pink throughout the year. This tree is native to South Africa, the Pink mallow has an upright growth form that can reach a height of up to 2m and a spread of approximately 2 m.

The dense foliage lends itself to clipping and the shrub can be used as a topiary subject. The leaves are variable in shape (from elliptical to three-lobed) and have a rough upper surface covered with short, sticky hairs. An aromatic fragrance is released when the leaves are bruised. Hibiscus-like flowers appear in spring or early summer and occasionally the blooms may appear throughout the year. The flowers attract insects and butterflies to the garden.

Fast growing, the Anisodontea scabrosa or ‘Sandroos’ in Afrikaans is an excellent water wise plant
and will thrive in windy seaside gardens. Although the coastal forms of the plant are sensitive to
frost, those from inland areas are frost hardy. It is also fairly adaptable to varying types of soil.
This ornamental shrub can be used as office block plantings, as a display plant in rock gardens or as a
specimen standard in deep containers. It is also a good bonsai subject.