🌺 About Hibiscus Plants

Hibiscus are flowering plants known for their large, vibrant blooms. They come in two main types:

1. Tropical Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Bright colors: red, yellow, orange, pink, multicolor

Must stay warm (cannot tolerate frost)

Often grown indoors in cool climates

2. Hardy Hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos & hybrids)

Giant dinner-plate-sized blooms

Can survive freezing winters

Dies back to the ground and regrows in spring

🌱 Basic Care Guide
Light

Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best blooms

Indoor tropical hibiscus: place near a south-facing window

Water

Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy

Tropical varieties dry out faster in heat

Hardy types are more tolerant of wet soil

Soil

Well-draining, slightly acidic soil

Container mix: potting soil + perlite + compost

Temperature

Tropical hibiscus: 60–90°F (16–32°C)

Protect from cold drafts and frost

Fertilizer

Use a high-potassium fertilizer during blooming season (spring–fall).
Avoid too much nitrogen → lots of leaves but few flowers.

Pruning

Light pruning in early spring

Pinch tips for fuller growth

Remove spent blooms to reduce seed formation

🌼 Common Problems
Issue Cause Fix
Yellow leaves Overwatering or lack of light Adjust watering, increase light
No blooms Low light or too much nitrogen Add sun, switch fertilizer
Aphids / whiteflies Common pests Use neem oil or insecticidal soap
🌾 Popular Varieties

Red Chinese Hibiscus – classic tropical

Lord Baltimore – hardy, giant red blooms

Blue River II – hardy with pale lavender flowers

Double Peach – ruffled tropical variety