Hibiscus is a plant noted for its showy flowers. Like other tropical plants the Hibiscus is native to warm, temperate, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world. The genus also includes both annual and perennial herbaceous plants, as well as woody shrubs and small trees.
The leaves are alternate, simple, ovate to lanceolate, often with a toothed or lobed margin. The flowers are large, conspicuous, trumpet-shaped, with five or more petals, ranging from white to pink, red, orange, purple or yellow. The color of the Hibiscus grows darker as it ages. The fruit is a dry five-lobed capsule, containing several seeds in each lobe, which are released when the capsule splits open at maturity.62UPGHPXQJ66
Many of these tropical plants are grown for their showy flowers or used as landscape shrubs. Hibiscus is also a primary ingredient in many herbal teas. One species of Hibiscus is used in paper making. Another is used as a vegetable and to make herbal teas and jams (especially in the Caribbean).
Healthy, fertilized hibiscus plants are more tolerant of insect attacks. The newly bought nursery grown tropical plants may need to be allowed to adjust to new conditions in your yard. Grown in partial shade and well fertilized, they need to be introduced to full sun over a 7-10 day period and kept well fertilized. Plant in at least 50% sun. Rotate insecticides for best results. Never use Malathion on Hibiscus. Strong dry winds can burn leaves but they will recover.
You can prune Hibiscus any time of the year except late fall and winter. Expect blooms on the new growth in about 3 months. Cut just above (1/4 inch) an eye that is pointing in the direction you want the new growth to go. New growth is more susceptible to freeze Up North. The Hibiscus plants will need to be brought inside for the Winter. In the deeper south, like Florida, you may only have to cover your plants to protect them from a light frost damage.
