Auntie Lilli's Sunset Hibiscus

Auntie Lilli's Sunset Hibiscus (Abelmoschus manihot 'Auntie Lilli's')

Auntie Lilli's Sunset Hibiscus (Abelmoschus manihot 'Auntie Lilli's') is a striking tropical-looking perennial known for its large, luminous pale yellow flowers with deep maroon centers. Also known as Sunset Hibiscus or Edible Hibiscus, this variety adds a lush, exotic feel to garden beds, borders, and edible landscapes with its bold presence and ornamental foliage.

Distinctive Features

'Auntie Lilli's' is prized for its dramatic blooms, which can reach up to 6 inches across and appear throughout the summer months. The deeply lobed, maple-like foliage adds texture and visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom. Though it has a tropical appearance, it is a fast-growing, warm-season annual or short-lived perennial in cooler climates, making a big visual impact in a single growing season.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil
• Water: Moderate to high; keep soil consistently moist
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Eye-catching flowers and foliage create a dramatic garden accent
• Tropical Borders: Brings exotic flair to warm-season planting schemes
• Edible Landscapes: Young leaves and flowers are edible and nutritious
• Container Gardening: Performs well in large pots for patio or deck display
• Cottage Gardens: Adds bold texture and color to informal garden styles

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells
• Pruning: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and cut back for shape if needed
• Fertilizing: Feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Start indoors in cooler zones or treat as an annual if frost is expected

Why Choose Auntie Lilli's Sunset Hibiscus?

• Show-Stopping Flowers: Large yellow blooms with dark centers are highly ornamental
• Edible Benefits: Leaves and flowers can be harvested for culinary use
• Fast Growth: Provides bold impact in a single season
• Unique Texture: Deeply lobed leaves add visual depth
• Focal Point: A stunning seasonal highlight in garden beds or containers

Abelmoschus manihot 'Auntie Lilli's' is a bold, tropical-style plant that adds ornamental and edible value to summer gardens, offering impressive flowers, unique foliage, and standout performance even in cooler climates.