
A Lady Baltimore Pink Hibiscus.
Planting, Growing, and Pruning Hibiscus
Types
Scarlet Swamp Hibiscus (H. coccineus): This plant, also known as Texas Star, has 5-petaled, brilliant-red flowers. It grows to a height of seven feet each growing season, dies back to the ground every winter, and resprouts in spring.
Rose Mallow (Hibiscus moscheutos): This is the classic dinner-plate hibiscus due to the large size of its flowers. These large, fast-growing plants bloom from August to October, and each plant may flaunt several 10 to 12-inch wide flowers at once. A few of the many popular cultivars are:
- ‘Anne Arundel’ has pink flowers, nine inches in diameter, on plants five feet tall.
- ‘Kopper King’ has light pink to white flowers with a burgundy center, 12 inches in diameter, with coppery red deeply cut leaves.
- ‘Lady Baltimore’ is a popular old variety with pink flowers and red centers on five-foot-tall plants.
- ‘Lord Baltimore’ is another old variety with red flowers on five-foot-tall plants.
Lisa-
It completely depends on what your space allows for. We love a big Hibiscus, but if you are limited in space, it may make sense to prune.
What causes leaves to yellow.
My plant was doing so well and then overnight the leaves started to turn yellow. I have it in a window but not in direct sun. I water it when it needs it.
Yellow leaves are a common problem. It can be caused by excessive watering. It can be a sign the plant needs food (fertilizer). It can also be normal in the spring when plants are transitioning. Finally, any dramatic change in air temp, soil moisture, or drafts can affect a plant’s leaf color.
What hibiscus for medicinal use would do well in NW Washington State (north or Seattle)?
Hi Eileen, Thanks for your question. Rose of Sharon and Roselle are two that are rated to grow in your hardiness zone. Both are perennial shrubs that can grow rather large over time. When considering where to plant—whether in the ground or in a container—follow the tips above for planting and care. Hibiscus is a tropical plant so special care needs to be taken for them to thrive in areas where temperatures drop near freezing. In colder climates, gardeners may prefer to plant them in containers so they can be brought indoors during winter. You can also connect with your local Cooperative Extension for more varieties to plant that are suitable to your area.
This site has had the simplest and most appreciated information on my plant. I was always told to not let it seed out
but it seems I don't have to worry about that ? I have dug up portions and given to friends thru the years. Thanks for
making it easy !
Fairfield Conn. has a fantastic Hibiscus grove/plantation in front of the Staples store; (@ Exit 22); I'll go there today to see how big the Hibiscus flowers are~: )
Is there a hardy Hibiscus plant for Zone 3?
Unfortunately, the lowest zone is zone 4. These plants aren’t fans of frost. However, you could get away with zone 3 if you bring inside when it gets colder. Put in a place that stays warmer than 50 degrees and has light.