did you know?

Although the origin of this plant is unknown, it is believed to be from China. Its species name, means "rose of China," one of the common names for this shrub.

general maintenance:

Prune hibiscus in early spring before growth resumes. Selectively cut back individual branches to shape shrub; because blooms are borne on the current season's growth, heavy spring pruning yields more flowers. In areas where winter dieback occurs, remove dead branches in early spring.

pests/diseases:

Hibiscus is relatively carefree, but whiteflies may occur in the greenhouse.

controls:

Regularly hose off whiteflies with a directed stream of water, hang sticky traps near shrub, or apply insecticidal soap, following label directions.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny to partly sunny site with well-drained soil. In early spring, dig hole twice the width of container or root ball, making sure there is enough room for shrub to reach its mature spread. Set plant at same depth or slightly higher than it was in pot or, if balled, even with top of root ball. Fill in hole around plant with soil. Mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of the hole to act as a catchbasin. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, remove carefully before planting. Burlap may be left around root ball and then peeled back once plant is set in hole. Water thoroughly, filling the basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread 2-inch layer of mulch around plant.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture the first season. Be sure the soil is moist before the ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once shrub is established, usually by the third year, water only in times of drought.

garden hint:

In Zone 8, this hibiscus is a perennial that dies back to the ground each winter. To extend its hardiness, select a planting site near a warm wall and out of the path of the drying, cold winter winds.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Attractive Fruit
• Attracts Hummingbirds
• Deciduous
• Winter Interest

garden uses:

• Containers
• Edging
• Flowerbed borders
• Indoors

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (use flowers and leaves for tea)
• Cut Flower

combine with:

summer-blooming perennials such as daylilies phlox, and salvia, or with red-leaved shrubs such as red barberry ( 'Rose Glow') or Smokebush ( 'Royal Purple') and summer-flowering shrubs like oakleaf hydrangea and spirea