Tropical Hibiscus

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Growth Potential

Height: 3-6 feet | Width: 3-5 feet

Big tropical blooms for summer patios and beds

Tropical Hibiscus brings huge, glossy flowers in red, orange, yellow and pink to North Texas summers. It loves the heat and blooms nonstop from late spring through fall, which makes it a popular patio and entry plant.

It is not frost hardy here, so most homeowners grow it in a pot or treat it as a seasonal shrub and protect it in winter.

Tropical Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Best Area to Plant

Location:

  • Large containers on patios and porches
  • Entry and pool areas
  • Sunny, sheltered beds near the house
  • Accent plant in summer color beds

Placement:

Plant in full sun to light afternoon shade, in a sheltered spot such as near a south or west wall. In pots, use well-drained potting soil. Keep it away from cold, exposed areas, and plan to move potted plants indoors before the first freeze.

Care Instructions

  • Light:

    Full sun to light afternoon shade. It needs several hours of sun to bloom well.

  • Water:

    Needs regular, deep watering in summer and may need daily water in pots during peak heat. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

  • Maintenance:

    Fertilize regularly during the growing season and prune lightly in spring to shape. Bring containers indoors or protect plants before temperatures drop below 40 degrees. It will not survive a hard freeze outdoors.