Contents
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Hibiscus
Description
Hibiscus Acicularis, commonly known as the Pineland Hibiscus or Bird-Foot Hibiscus, is a flowering plant native to the southeastern United States. It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The plant has a woody stem and green leaves that are 3-5 inches long and 1-3 inches wide. The flowers are large and showy, measuring 4-5 inches in diameter, and come in a variety of colors such as pink, red, and white. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall.
Appearance
The Hibiscus Acicularis has a unique appearance due to its bird-foot shaped leaves. The leaves are green and have three to five lobes that are pointed and resemble a bird’s foot. The flowers of the plant are the main attraction and come in a variety of colors. They have five petals that are fused at the base and a prominent central stamen. The flowers are large and showy, measuring 4-5 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to partial shade to thrive.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hibiscus Acicularis is susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. The plant is also prone to diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help control pests and diseases.
Habitat
The Hibiscus Acicularis is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in pine forests, savannahs, and wetlands. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hibiscus Acicularis?
A: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best soil for the Hibiscus Acicularis?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of the Hibiscus Acicularis?
A: The plant is susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites, and diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of the Hibiscus Acicularis?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Hibiscus Moscheutos
- Hibiscus Syriacus
- Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis
- Hibiscus Sabdariffa
References
- Bonnie L. Grant, “Hibiscus Acicularis Care: Learn How To Grow Birdfoot Hibiscus,” Gardening Know How, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hibiscus/birdfoot-hibiscus-care.htm
- “Hibiscus acicularis,” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HIAC3
- “Hibiscus acicularis,” USDA Plants Database, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HIAC3
