Botanical name
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Common name
Chinese Hibiscus, Hibiscus, Hawaiian Hibiscus
Hibiscus description
There are over 200 species of Hibiscus ranging from perennials to shrubs and trees.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a popular evergreen shrub sought after for its distinct, brightly coloured abundance of flowers. These are produced over a long period but are most prevalent during the warmer months. Many hybrids have been produced over time resulting in a multitude of flower colours – reds, oranges, pinks, creams, yellows and white just to name a few. Multi-coloured flowers can also be found in single, semi-double and double blooms.
Leaves are shiny dark green that lend themselves well to hedging.
Climate
Warm temperate, sub-tropical, tropical
Plant cultivation and care
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis prefers a well drained soil with plenty of organic matter. They thrive in a full sun position protected from frost and require regular watering during warm weather.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings approximately 20cm long taken in Summer/Autumn.
Plant use
Tropical gardens, full sun, shrubberies, hedges, windbreaks, screening plants
Pruning
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis should be cut back by a third in early Spring to promote bushy new growth and plentiful flowers.
Pests and diseases
Hibiscus Flower Beetle, aphids, white wax scale, mealybugs are known to attack the Hibiscus. There are bacterial diseases and viral diseases that also favour this plant.
