This is a close look at the rare Andringitra macrantha from Madagascar.  Formerly known as Dombeya macrantha, this gorgeous bush is decorated with bell-shaped blossoms in glowing shades of pink with an orangey tint.  Even without flowers it is a fantastic plant, with large, woolly leaves that have the texture of felt.  It is seldom seen in cultivation, even in botanical gardens.  It is almost never seen for sale.

 Andringitra macrantha is an evergreen bush in the Mallow family (Malvaceae).  It grows fairly quickly to about 8 feet tall and wide, although you can prune it a lot shorter.  Its olive-colored leaves are about 10 inches long and have copper colored veins.  Both sides of the leaves are densely covered with soft, fuzzy hairs, providing a nice tactile element to the garden.  The blooms dangle singly from long stems from spring through autumn, and occasionally other times.  The 2 inch blossoms unfurl with 5 petals that have attractive veins.  The petal color can vary with the temperature but usually is a watermelon red or salmon, blending to white near the top.  The blooms are topped with unusual bracts that are intricately frilled.

The plant grows at about 1600 meter elevation in Madagascar, where temperatures are mild all year and nights are cool.  In cultivation it has handled 90 degrees F (32°C) with cool nights.  It's possible that it won't thrive with the combination of hot days and warm nights (above 65°F / 19°C).  I don't know its cold hardiness, but i presume it is hardy to about 28°F (-2°C).  I recommend protecting it from frost.  It grows well in a large pot.  It enjoys mostly sunny conditions.  Some afternoon shade might be a good idea in warmer climates.  Use well-draining soil and keep it evenly moist.  It has fairly high water requirements.  Over about 40% humidity is best.  It is rarely bothered by insects.

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Germination tips for this plant