Hibiscus

Plant Overview

Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is listed in the Malvaceae family and categorized as a ornamental with a perennial shrub life cycle. This profile summarizes growing information for hardiness, light, soil, water, seed starting, maturity, and other available cultivation details. Difficulty is listed as Moderate.

Plant ID

PLT-0122

Family

Malvaceae

Plant type

Ornamental

Life cycle

Perennial shrub

Growth habit

Ornamental flowering plant

Mature height

Varies by species and cultivar

Mature spread

Varies by species and cultivar

Difficulty

Moderate

Growing Conditions

Hibiscus is listed for full sun conditions. Water needs are listed as moderate; adjust irrigation to species and climate. The database soil reference is Well-drained garden soil suited to the species. The listed soil pH range is 6.0-7.0, and the listed hardiness range is 9-11.

Hardiness zones

9-11

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil

Well-drained garden soil suited to the species

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Water needs

Moderate; adjust irrigation to species and climate

Plant spacing

Space according to mature size and desired display

Seed & Germination

For seed starting, the listed germination time is Typically 5-21 days from seed when conditions are suitable and the seed depth is Surface sow to about 1/2 inch depending on seed size. The listed time to maturity is Typically 60-120 days to flowering or mature seasonal display. Use these values as general reference points and adjust for local climate, seed source, and growing conditions.

Germination

Typically 5-21 days from seed when conditions are suitable

Germination temperature

Generally 60-75°F for many ornamental seeds

Seed depth

Surface sow to about 1/2 inch depending on seed size

Sowing method

Direct sow or start indoors depending on species and season

Start indoors

Often 4-8 weeks before transplanting

Transplanting

Harden off and transplant when outdoor conditions are suitable

Harvest & Propagation

Days to maturity

Typically 60-120 days to flowering or mature seasonal display

Harvest

Flowers may be cut when they reach the desired stage; otherwise allow blooms for display or seed

Propagation

Seed, cuttings, division, or other species-appropriate methods

Seed saving

Allow healthy seed to mature fully before collecting; use species-specific isolation practices where cross-pollination matters.

Pollination

Commonly insect-pollinated

Garden Information

Common pests

Aphids, mites, thrips, caterpillars, slugs, and other ornamental pests

Common diseases

Leaf spots, mildews, rots, wilts, and other ornamental diseases

Uses

Ornamental beds, borders, containers, pollinator gardens, or cut flowers