Hibiscus

Description

Hibiscus is a flowering plant that belongs to the mallow family (Malvaceae). It is native to warm temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions around the world. The plant produces large, showy flowers that come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow, orange, and white. Hibiscus flowers have a distinctive trumpet shape and are often used in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and teas.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Hibiscus plants can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, but some varieties are smaller and more compact. The leaves are glossy and bright green, and the flowers are large and showy with five or more petals. The flowers can range in size from 2 to 12 inches in diameter. The stamens are fused into a tube that surrounds the style, which extends out of the center of the flower. The style is topped by a stigma, which is often divided into five or more branches. The flowers are followed by fruit capsules that contain numerous seeds.

Care Guide

Hibiscus plants require regular watering, fertilization, and well-draining soil. They prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. Hibiscus plants are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11 but can be grown in colder climates as well if protected from frost. To care for hibiscus plants:

• Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Plant in a location that receives full sun or partial shade.
• Protect from frost and cold temperatures by covering or moving indoors.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hibiscus plants can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Whiteflies
• Scale insects
• Leaf spot
• Powdery mildew
• Root rot

To prevent and treat pests and diseases, keep the plant healthy and well-maintained. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils to control pests, and remove infected plant parts and dispose of them properly.

Habitat

Hibiscus plants are found in a variety of habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They prefer warm temperatures and moist, well-drained soil. Hibiscus plants can be grown in containers or as landscape plants in gardens, parks, and public spaces.

Question and Answer

Q: Can hibiscus plants be grown indoors?

A: Yes, hibiscus plants can be grown indoors in a sunny location. They require regular watering and fertilization, and may need to be pruned to control their size.

Q: How often should hibiscus plants be fertilized?

A: Hibiscus plants should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: What is the best time to prune hibiscus plants?

A: Hibiscus plants should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Pruning can help to promote bushier growth and more flowers.

Q: How can I protect my hibiscus plants from frost?

A: Hibiscus plants should be covered or moved indoors when temperatures drop below freezing. You can also mulch around the base of the plant to help insulate the roots.

Related Plants

• Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)
• Chinese hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
• Tropical hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
• Swamp hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus)
• Halberdleaf rosemallow (Hibiscus laevis)

References

• “Hibiscus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b422
• “Hibiscus Plant Care.” HGTV. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/trees-and-shrubs/hibiscus-plant-care
• “Hibiscus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HIBIS