Tropical Hibiscus

When the growing season begins, gardeners eagerly fill garden borders, pathways and containers with colorful annuals. This is, of course, our way to kick-start what will soon be the bonanza of blooms. As spring-blooming trees, shrubs and perennials prepare to present a festival of colors, annuals lead the way.

Gardeners put forth the same effort with outdoor gathering places, like decks, patios and entryways. Often those gathering places are transformed into tropical scenes found in our favorite summer vacation spot.

The same holds true with the Cavanaugh deck. Every year when filling our back deck with plants, the tropical hibiscus is an essential element. It’s affordable, durable, and for me, a summer must-have. (Fact: I have more plants on my deck than places to sit.)
While there are many members of the Hibiscus family, for the purposes of this article, we’ll discuss only the tropical hibiscus, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.

Available as a small tree or shrub, both can be planted in the garden bed or in a container. I prefer the tree variety in a container, situated on the deck near the kitchen window. That way I can enjoy the stunning blooms indoors and out.

True to its origin, this beauty does well in tropical conditions. This hibiscus is considered an annual in these parts. So when temperatures drop and first frost is imminent, it’s time to consider protecting the plant.

Tropical hibiscus has lance-shaped, glossy dark green leaves with toothed margins. It bears 4- to 6-inch blossoms all summer. Solitary, five-petaled flowers 4 inches across range from single to ruffled and double. With a tremendous range of colors and bloom types, you’ll easily find one (or more) suitable for your patio.

I found that although tropical hibiscus loves sunlight, it helps to place a newly-planted hibiscus in the shade for about two weeks so the plant has time to adjust, then move it into bright sunlight.

The plant performs best when it receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day; however, afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.

When planting in a container (with good drainage, of course), use a standard potting mix formulated for flowering plants. Allow the soil to dry completely before watering. The old-timers say a little wilt never hurts. Then give it a good soaking. To encourage continuous flowering, a dose of fertilizer according to directions is suggested.

Now I haven’t seen any pests on mine, but experts say most pests, like spider mites, white fly and aphids are easily controlled with insecticidal soap spray. Apply the spray when the sun isn’t directly on the foliage, as the spray may burn the plants. Never spray when temperatures are above 90°F. A cool morning or evening is best.

This tender hibiscus won’t survive freezing temperatures, so I plan to overwinter mine indoors for the first time. Expect an update in spring.