Tropical Hibiscus

Tropical Hibiscus (Hibiscus x rosa-sinensis)

Tropical Hibiscus delivers continuous, show-stopping color with large, glossy-petaled blooms and lush evergreen foliage on a rounded, fast-growing shrub; it thrives in heat and sun, shining in beds and patio containers through the warm season.

Distinctive Features

Massive flowers in saturated solids and bicolors open on new growth from spring to fall, drawing pollinators; shiny, deep green leaves and a naturally full habit create a bold focal point in tropical and Mediterranean-style plantings.

Growing Conditions

Provide full sun, fertile well-drained soil, and steady moisture for prolific bloom; in cool climates grow in containers to move indoors before frost.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for 6 to 8 hours; light afternoon shade in very hot regions improves leaf quality.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained loam with added compost; avoid waterlogged sites.
• Water: Keep evenly moist during active growth and flowering; do not allow prolonged drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11 outdoors; grow as a summer container plant elsewhere.
• Mature Size: Typically 3 to 6 ft tall and wide in containers, 6 to 8 ft in-ground in frost-free climates.
• Bloom Time: Spring through fall in warm conditions; year-round indoors with high light.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.0.

Ideal Uses

Use as a vibrant specimen or colorful hedge, or feature in large pots where blooms can be enjoyed up close.

• Focal Point: Giant blooms deliver instant curb appeal.
• Container Feature: Thrives on sunny patios and balconies.
• Seasonal Hedge: Dense foliage forms a summer privacy screen.
• Poolside Planting: Tropical texture for resort-style landscapes.
• Pollinator Garden: Flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Low Maintenance Care

Regular watering, feeding, and timely pruning keep plants vigorous and floriferous.

• Watering: Water deeply when the top 1 in of soil is dry; increase frequency in heat and containers.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to shape and encourage new flowering wood; deadhead to tidy.
• Fertilizing: Feed every 2 to 4 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer; reduce in fall and winter.
• Mulching: Apply 2 to 3 in of organic mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature, keeping mulch off stems.
• Notes: Frost tender; overwinter indoors in bright light before nights drop below 50 F; monitor for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites and manage with strong water sprays or insecticidal soap.

Why Choose Tropical Hibiscus?

Few shrubs match its nonstop flower power and tropical presence in warm weather.

• Spectacular Blooms: Huge flowers in vivid colors and patterns.
• Long Season: Extended flowering with proper light and feeding.
• Versatile Placement: Equally strong in-ground or in large containers.
• Heat Loving: Performs in hot, sunny sites with regular water.
• Wildlife Value: Nectar-rich blooms for pollinators.

Plant in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil, keep moisture steady, and prune in late winter to enjoy abundant, show-stopping flowers.