Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

 

  Hibiscus or Rose of China

  Family: Malvaceae

  Origin: Cultivars of species from China

Hardiness: USDA Zones 9b and 10; needs protection in colder areas
Growth: Slow growing to 6 to 10 feet or higher
Form: Upright, loose unless pruned
Leaves: Dark green, 3 to 5 inches long by 2 inches wide
Flowers: Single or double, 6 inch, 5 petalled flowers in many colors
Exposure: Full sun or part shade (especially inland)
Water: Regular deep watering; likes to be kept moist
Soil: Well drained, moist, loam or sand
Fertilizer: Acid based NPK monthly March through October
Prune: Thin and head back in March by up to 50%; remove frost damaged
    branches; plants bloom on current year's wood
Problems: Prone to aphids and scale; snails; spray when you spray your roses

This is a tropical shrub that is valued in California for its spectacular flowers. They come in white, pink, red, orange, apricot and yellow -- including some with two colors. Many varieties are available. Please don't shear these plants -- you'll prevent them from flowering. Excellent in pots.

For much more extensive information go to the Hidden Valley Hibiscus website.

© 1997 by Jim Clatfelter.         Go to Garden California Home Page

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