Chinese Hibiscus

(Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Chinese Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, commonly known as Chinese Hibiscus, is an evergreen shrub or small tree that likely originated from a hybrid of Hibiscus species such as H. cooperi and H. kaute by Polynesians in the west Pacific. It typically grows 2.5–5 m (8–16 ft) tall and 1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) wide. The plant features glossy, dark green leaves and large, showy flowers that bloom in summer and autumn. The flowers are solitary, axillary, and symmetrical, with the most common color being red, although cultivars offer a rainbow of colors including white, pink, orange, peach, yellow, blue, and purple, with some varieties boasting double blooms. Chinese Hibiscus is valued for its vibrant flowers and is widely used as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical gardens.

In cultivation, Chinese Hibiscus is appreciated for its ease of maintenance and the year-round interest it provides in warm climates. It is often used in container gardening, as a hedge, and for adding a tropical flair to landscapes. The plant requires full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture. It is sensitive to cold and must be protected or moved indoors in temperate regions during winter. While generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-10 feet
  • Width: 5-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Orange, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Garden origin and expanded information on flower colors and uses in cultivation

Other Names

Common Names: Shoeblackplant , Hibiskus , Rose-Of-China , China Rose , Hawaiian Hibiscus , Rose Mallow , Shoeblack Plant , Cucarda , Pedro Segundo , 朱槿

Scientific Names: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis , Hibiscus liliiflorus , Hibiscus storckii , Hibiscus rosa-sinensis var. rubro-plenus , Hibiscus cooperi , Hibiscus tricolor , Hibiscus rosa-sinensis var. rosa-sinensis , Hibiscus rosa-sinensis var. carnea-plenus , Abelmoschus genevii , Hibiscus androphoro-petaloides

GBIF Accepted Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.