Hibiscus plants thrive on nearly every continent of the planet. They come in hundreds of varieties and colors. Not only are hibiscus grown for okra and wine making, they are also believed to have numerous medicinal properties stemming from nearly all parts of the plant. The three most commonly grown hibiscus in America are Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Tropical Hibiscus), Hibiscus moscheutos (Hardy Hibiscus) and Hibiscus syriacus (Rose of Sharon).
Tropical Hibiscus
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis are available through nurseries and home centers. They have beautiful flowers with vibrant colors, but cannot survive the winter outside of the tropics. Many people plant them as annuals in the garden or grow Tropical Hibiscus in containers and bring them inside for the winter. Beautiful and eye-catching, the Tropical Hibiscus requires a significant amount of extra attention, requiring regular pruning and feeding. Bring Tropical Hibiscus inside when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Hardy Hibiscus
Hibiscus moscheutos are also called the Hardy or Perennial Hibiscus. These plants are known for their enormous blooms (often 10 to 12 inches wide) and easy care. Hardy Hibiscus bloom from August to October and can easily winter over as far north as USDA Hardiness Zone 3 with proper preparation. Plant Hardy Hibiscus 3 to 6 feet apart, as they can grow quite large -- up to 15 feet tall in areas with little or no frost.
Rose of Sharon
Hibiscus syriacus is a hibiscus that is frequently used as a hedge because of its aggressive and tight growth habit. Rose of Sharon is very difficult to kill once established and in some areas becomes invasive. Space plants 6 to 10 feet apart and be persistent about thinning your Rose of Sharon and the plants will reward you with easy care and beautiful cup-shaped flowers in a multitude of colors.
Growing Tips
Hibiscus generally prefer sunny locations, but will tolerate some shade. They make fantastic foundation plantings because of their height and dark green foliage -- lighter colored plants in front of them really "pop" with such a dark background. Heavy pruning is very important to maintaining a desired size for your hibiscus plant. Hibiscus also make great screens or flowering hedges because of their dense foliage.
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