Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Common Names

Tropical Hibiscus, Chinese Hibiscus, Hawaiian Hibiscus, China Rose, Shoeblack Plant, Rose of China, Bunga Raya

Summary

Native to Asia, the tropical hibiscus is an evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy leaves and bold trumpet-shaped blooms that range across colors from red, pink, white, yellow, orange, purple to multicolor forms, blooms are large, may be single or double, and often last about one day, giving a tropical, showy look, the plant grows outdoors as a specimen or hedge in warm climates (USDA zones 9–12) and can be kept as an indoor container plant in cooler regions, cultivation emphasizes bright light from full sun to partial shade, well-drained fertile soil, and keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, temperatures typically between 50 and 85°F, evergreen in warm climates, outdoors in warm zones and indoors in cooler climates, regular fertilization (slow-release preferred) and pruning to shape, propagation mainly by cuttings, uses include containers, borders, hedges, focal points, and butterfly/pollinator gardens, common challenges include aphids and spider mites, with powdery mildew as a possible disease.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

4-10 feet

Spread

5-8 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun, tolerates partial sun or partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-draining, rich soil high in organic matter with slightly acidic pH around 6.5–6.8.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.5-6.8, Slightly acidic

Bloom Color

Red (typical); pink, orange, yellow, white, purple, peach, salmon, and multi-colored varieties

Bloom Time

Year-round in warm climates

Foliage Color

Green, variegated

Fall Foliage Color

No fall color change; evergreen leaves are green.

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Fast-growing; up to 24 inches per year

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering, Water propagation, Leaf propagation

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators