Sparrmannia africana is a large, much branched, bushy soft-wooded evergreen shrub with a rounded habit. The branches are soft, and are covered in stiff, bristly hairs when young. The lush leaves are large and heart-shaped. The margin is toothed.
The large white flowers have a mass of yellow and red-purple stamens in the centre. Much of the attraction of this flower is in the puff of brightly bicoloured stamens. They are also sensitive to touch. Flowering occurs from mid-winter into early summer (June to November).
Sparrmannia africana is an easy-to-grow large shrub for a shady area and can be used as an interesting tall backdrop to a flower bed. It can also be grown in a large container.
Plant in shade or semi-shade, in well-composted soil. Water regularly.
You may find stock of this plant at Random Harvest