Bernieh's Garden
Hibiscus
Genus: Hibiscus.
Species: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.
Common name: Hibiscus
Botanic name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Family: Malvaceae
This shrubs has alternate leaves that are often rough to touch. The flowers are red or pink and have 5 free petals and the lower portion of the stamens are fused to form a tube around the style. The style branches into 5 towards the apex and each branch is crowned by a stigma. The fruit is a capsule which splits into 5.
It loves sun and a warm climate so it does well in places like Queensland, but it's a little bit more difficult to grow down south. The plant needs full sun and a well drained soil and it's important it doesn't get wet feet. Add some mulch to stop the soil drying out, but make sure this doesn't touch the stem.
The soil should be neutral to slightly alkaline and feeding is important. Hibiscus need to be well fertilised and respond well to a citrus or a specialised hibiscus food. Apply this monthly from August through to March.
Hibiscus have a couple of flowering flushes, usually in spring and autumn. The plant responds well to pruning. Prune hard in September for shape then give it a light prune in February.
Hibiscus are a great addition to any warm climate garden either planted in the ground or they grow well in a pot and for a real tropical effect trim them as a hedge.
