about the product
Abelmoschus moschatus, commonly known as musk mallow or musk okra, is a tropical species in the mallow family (Malvaceae) native to South and Southeast Asia. It develops a distinctive swollen caudex-like taproot that stores water, making it especially attractive to caudex collectors. During the growing season, the plant produces large pink flowers with a yellow center, followed by aromatic seed pods whose musky fragrance has long been valued in traditional perfumery and herbal medicine.
The plant is currently losing its leaves due to winter. If you grow it indoors under a grow light, the leaves will grow back very quickly.
sizing
Size approximately 100mm, around 100 g / 0.10 kg (equivalent to around 2–3 years old)
CARING TIPS
Note
The following care guide is suggested based on the weather conditions of NSW and VIC. For other Australian states, please use this as a reference and adjust according to your local climate.
Origin
Tropical & Subtropical Asia
Wet tropical habitat
Warm, humid, open areas with rich but well-draining soil
Life Cycle & Dormancy
Spring – Summer → active growth
Usually grows best from around September to March
Produces soft green stems, lobed leaves and hibiscus-like yellow flowers
Flowers may develop into seed pods after pollination
Autumn – Winter → slower growth to semi-dormant
May lose vigour or drop some leaves from June to August
In cooler areas, it may behave like a seasonal annual
Soil
Fast draining but moisture-retentive mix
Organic-rich soil with good aeration recommended
Compost, bark, perlite, pumice & coarse sand work well
Keep the mix airy but not too dry during active growth
Avoid heavy, compacted or waterlogged potting mix
Watering
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Spring – Summer → regular watering during warm active growth
During very hot or windy weeks, water more often
During humid or rainy weeks, wait longer between watering
Autumn → gradually reduce watering as growth slows
Winter → reduce watering, especially from June to August
Do not keep the roots sitting in cold, wet soil
Light
Bright light to gentle full sun
Morning sun is ideal
Strong light encourages healthy growth and better flowering
Protect from harsh afternoon sun during heatwaves
Best grown with warmth, bright light and good airflow
Temperature
Best: 22–30°C
Winter nights can be too cool and damp for active growth
Winter minimum: 12–15°C recommended
Keep warm, lightly moist and well ventilated during cold periods
Move indoors or under cover during long rainy winter weeks
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Plant may drop its leaves during shipping or in Sydney’s cooler months, especially from June to August. This is normal, as the plant is deciduous and can naturally enter dormancy during autumn and winter. New leaves will usually grow back once the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
After arrival, soak the plant in water or diluted HB101 / Seasol for 3–5 hours. Then keep it in shade for 1–2 days to recover and adapt gently.
For live plants, we ship them bareroot (roots only, without soil and pot). This helps make the shipping process smoother, faster, and safer, while also greatly reducing the risk of root rot during transit.
Pots, soil mixes, and fertilizers will be packed carefully and shipped securely.
You can read the full shipping policy here.