Template:POTD/2010-12-05
The flower of a Abutilon × hybridum 'Patrick Synge' cultivar, a hybrid shrub of unknown parentage. The common name "Chinese Lantern" is often used, though the same name is also applied to Physalis alkekengi. It is a popular group of hybrids that are semi-tropical, frost-tender shrubs typically growing 2–3 m (7–10 ft) tall. The lantern-like buds open to solitary, pendulous, bell- to cup-shaped flowers to 8 cm (3 in) diameter with five overlapping petals and significant staminal columns typical of the mallow family. Flowers come in red, pink, yellow, white and pastel shades. Lobed, maple-like, light green leaves are often variegated with white and yellow.Photo: Noodle snacks