Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Chinese hibiscus

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Taxonomy

Description

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a vibrant, tropical evergreen shrub famed for its large, showy flowers in dazzling colors. It thrives in warmth and sun, blooming for months and bringing an instant vacation vibe to gardens, patios, and bright indoor spaces.

Common Names

Chinese hibiscusTropical hibiscusChina roseShoe flowerHawaiian hibiscusGumamela

Context

nativeRegion

Likely tropical Asia and nearby Pacific; widely cultivated and hybridized across the tropics.

usdaZones

9b–11 outdoors; grow in containers and overwinter indoors in cooler zones.

companionPlants

Croton (Codiaeum variegatum), Pentas, Plumbago, Mandevilla, Canna, Coleus, Bird of paradise (Strelitzia)

culturalUses

Popular ornamental for hedges and containers; flowers used in hair adornments and garlands; offerings in some Hindu traditions; historically used as a natural shoe polish and in folk remedies (not the species used for hibiscus tea).

Care

Care Requirements

LightFull sun for best blooming (6+ hours). In very hot climates, provide light afternoon shade; indoors, brightest south or west window.

WateringKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Reduce slightly in cooler months.

SoilRich, well-draining mix; slightly acidic (pH ~6.0–6.8). For containers, use peat/coir-based mix with perlite and bark for aeration.

FertilizerFeed regularly in warm months with a hibiscus or high-potassium, low-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 2–1–4). Apply every 1–2 weeks at 1/2 strength.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity (50–70%). Mist lightly or use a tray/humidifier indoors if air is dry.

TemperatureWarmth-loving: 60–90°F (16–32°C) ideal. Protect below 50°F (10°C); frost will damage or kill the plant.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitEvergreen, bushy shrub to small tree; typically upright with branching enhanced by tip pinching.

Mature SizeCommonly 6–10 ft tall and 4–6 ft wide; up to 12–15 ft in-ground in frost-free climates; smaller in containers.

Growth RateModerate to fast in warm conditions with adequate water and nutrients.

BloomingHeavy bloom spring through fall; year-round in tropics. Individual flowers last 1–2 days with continual new buds.

DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cool, short-day periods and may partially defoliate if chilled.

Propagation

MethodsSoftwood cuttings, Semi-hardwood cuttings, Air layering, Grafting, Seed (hybrids not true to type)

DifficultyEasy to moderate

Best SeasonLate spring through summer for cuttings; spring to midsummer for air layering and grafting.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningPrune late winter to early spring to shape and encourage branching; tip-pinch during season. Remove spent wood and crossing stems.

RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring as roots fill the pot; refresh top 1–2 inches of mix annually if not upsizing.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, mealybugs, and scale; treat early with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Prevent root rot with sharp drainage; correct chlorosis by lowering pH and adding iron if needed.

ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to humans; may cause mild GI upset in pets if ingested—supervise curious animals.

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