Bernieh's Garden
Hibiscus schizopetalus - Japanese Lantern
Genus: Hibiscus.
Species: Hibiscus schizopetalus.
Common name: Japanese Lantern, Coral Hibiscus
Botanic name: Hibiscus Schizopetalus
Family: Malvaceae
This shrub from tropical East Africa is unequalled for its upright form and deeply dissected, pendulous pink blooms. Hibiscus schizopetalus is a shrub that will reach about 6 to 8 feet with a spread of 5 to 6 feet. It is a very fast grower and needs to be pruned often.
Blooms sporadically all year long. Flowers are delicate, pendent on slender pedicels. Petals are 2-1/2 inches long, recurved and deeply lobed. The red or pink flowers are very distinctive in their frilly, finely divided petals.
Hibiscus schizopetalus need part shade and intermediate to warm temperatures. Prune it often to keep a desired form. Pruning also helps to keep a abundance of flowers, since flowers are formed on new wood.
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater
Hibiscus schizopetalus is propagated by cuttings of half-ripe wood or by layers. Cutting are slow to root and should be treated with a rooting hormone.
