Hibiscus rosa-sinensis aka Hawaiian Hibiscus

Taxonomy

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, also known as Chinese hibiscus, China rose, Hawaiian hibiscus, rose mallow, and shoeblack plant, is a tropical flowering plant native to Vanuatu. This rounded bushy shrub features glossy dark-green, lance-shaped evergreen leaves. During the summer and autumn seasons, it produces abundant bright red flowers with yellow-anthered red stamens and a crimson throat, which emerge from the leaf axils. Hibiscus is a popular ornamental plant in the tropics and subtropics, valued for its beauty and resilience. It is an ideal choice for those who desire a stunning plant but lack knowledge in flower care. The size of the Hibiscus plant can vary depending on the species, typically reaching heights of 3-6 feet (1-1.8 meters) and widths of 2-4 feet (50-100 centimeters). The vibrant flowers of Hibiscus come in shades of red, yellow, or white, with diameters ranging from 3-10 inches (7-25 centimeters). To ensure your Hibiscus thrives and blooms brightly, it is essential to keep in mind a few care tips.

Common names

Hawaiian Hibiscus, Hibiscus, Chinese Hibiscus

How to care for Hawaiian Hibiscus

Difficulty

Caring for Hawaiian Hibiscus can be demanding, requiring a deep understanding of its unique needs and a commitment to provide optimal care.

Water

Hawaiian Hibiscus should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Hawaiian Hibiscus loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Hawaiian Hibiscus thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Chinese Hibiscus.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Hawaiian Hibiscus. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Hawaiian Hibiscus is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Hawaiian Hibiscus’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia