Hibiscus

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.

high-BISS-cuss ROSE-ah-sigh-NEN-sis

Malvaceae

Explanation of name: Hibiscus is an ancient Greek name for mallows. Rosa-sinensis means Rse of China.

Natural range:  Probably Tropical Asia

Recognition: Readily recognized as the most-cultivated flowering ornamental shrub in tropical and subtropical settings. ‘Cooperi’ has the foliage marbled with red and white.

Roselle is Hibiscus sabdariffa.

Hibiscus schizopetalus (Mast.) Hook. f. has dissected petals.

Hibiscus furcellatus Desr. is the native pink-flowered species.

Hibiscus cannabinus L. is Kenaf, cultivated in Florida for making paper.

Hibiscus tiliaceus L. is the Mahoe, having flowers that change from yellow to red,  common escaped from cultivation.  It is an invasive exotic native to the Old World Tropics.

Landscpe uses: This is the species of hibiscus encountered n all shapes, sized, and floral colors commonly cultivated in tropical gardens.  Through breeding and selection, this species has become bizarrely diverse and has 120 (HUX) cultivars.  Hard prune in the spring to promote young, flowery groth; pinching later in the season may be beneficial.  Bud drop is caused by stress, such as drying or cold (HUX), or may be caused by gnat larvae.