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Description
Hibiscus Pusillus, also known as the dwarf swamp hibiscus, is a small shrub that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in wetlands and swampy areas. The plant has a spreading habit and can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and dark green in color. Hibiscus Pusillus produces beautiful, pink or white flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are about 2 inches wide and have a prominent yellow center.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
| Species | Pusillus |
Appearance
Hibiscus Pusillus is a small shrub that has a spreading habit. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and dark green in color. The flowers are about 2 inches wide and have a prominent yellow center. The petals are pink or white in color and have a slightly ruffled edge. The flowers bloom from late spring to early fall and are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Hibiscus Pusillus is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Hibiscus Pusillus in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight a day to bloom properly.
- Hardiness Zones: Hibiscus Pusillus is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus Pusillus is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects can cause damage similar to aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control whiteflies.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause circular spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control leaf spot.
Habitat
Hibiscus Pusillus is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in wetlands and swampy areas. The plant can also be found in other moist habitats such as marshes, bogs, and streambanks. It can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hibiscus Pusillus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hibiscus Pusillus can be grown in containers. Just make sure to use a well-draining soil mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hibiscus Pusillus?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is Hibiscus Pusillus a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Hibiscus Pusillus produces beautiful flowers that are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Hibiscus Pusillus tolerate drought?
A: No, Hibiscus Pusillus prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Related Plants
- Hibiscus moscheutos
- Hibiscus syriacus
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
- Hibiscus sabdariffa
References
- “Hibiscus Pusillus.” Floridata, floridata.com/Plants/Malvaceae/Hibiscus%20pusillus/1156.
- “Hibiscus Pusillus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HIPU.
- “Hibiscus Pusillus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b674.
