The quintessential tropical flowering shrub, producing a non-stop succession of huge, flamboyant trumpet flowers in every warm colour. Loves heat and sun; frost-tender but spectacular in warm gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 2.5 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Hibiscus
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a fast-growing shrub in the Malvaceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red, pink, orange and yellow flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Hibiscus
Hibiscus suits tropical, subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Hibiscus does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 1.2 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Hibiscus does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Hibiscus after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Its ongoing care level is moderate maintenance.
Using Hibiscus in the garden
Hibiscus earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge, pots and courtyard containers and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate as Hibiscus. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Buying Hibiscus
Plant Sale lists Hibiscus as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
