Hibiscus & More

HIBISCUS plants have become very popular in recent years. Hibiscus are also the national of flower of Haiti, Hawaii, Malaysia and S. Korea. Hibiscus plants are divided into two categories, the tropical flowering Hibiscus & the hardy (perennial) flowering Hibiscus. Tropical Hibiscus are not winter hardy in areas outside of climates such as the state of California and Florida. 

The hardy Hibiscus are hardy in zone 4 and with extra protection, a little hardy in zone 3. Hardy Hibiscus can be grown as far north as Minnesota and New York. Hardy Hibiscus need little care over the winter; they are root hardy to about zone 5 with no protection. They die back to the ground each year and grow very quickly once they break ground in late spring. Although they bloom in the late summer, hardy Hibiscus have continuous pretty blooms. Hardy Hibiscus prefer slightly acidic PH and organic soil. Brooklyn Hibiscus lovers can plant the Rose of Sharon. They are hardy and tolerable in zone 7B.      

Tropical Hibiscus will not tolerate more than a night or two of light frost. One hard frost, below 25 degrees could kill the plant. These plants are native to sunny, warm and usually humid tropical places. They would need to be brought inside in zones outside of zone 9 before temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit at night to avoid damage. 

Hibiscus care is relatively easy. Hardy Hibiscus can be trimmed back to about 12’ above the ground after a killing frost. Once the soil is close to freezing solid, they should be heavily mulched. Pile the mulch at least 12’ deep.You can cover the mulch with snow to provide even more insulation. They need to be kept cold, not frozen or warm. 

After planting on a good site, water and fertilize and provide winter protection. If you want to encourage better branching, pinch them lightly early in the growing season. Hibiscus should not need pruning unless they get too large for their area. Once the new shoots have emerged in the spring, you can prune out the old stems.

Hardy Hibiscus plants are not as prone to insect or disease problems. They may have occasional outbreaks of spider mites and Japanese beetles. Controls for these pests may be purchased at Hibiscus. Growing Hibiscus can make you smile, especially when you see the first bloom.  

Hibiscus Flowershop ships Hibiscus plants starting from March-August/September. In our zone (7B), tropical hibiscus are not available after September. However, if the weather holds we may still have stock. 

If you would like to purchase a tropical Hibiscus from Sept. - Feb., email info@hibiscusflowershop.com with your inquiry or call 718.207.1625. If they are still available, we will surely be able to ship or deliver to you! Please keep in mind that Rose of Sharon Hibiscus which is a perennial in this zone (7B) may be available.