Hibiscus

Taxonomic Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Mallow Family

Shrub or Small Tree

The Chinese Hibiscus is a year-round houseplant and a summertime patio plant. It is a close relative of the rose-of-Sharon tree and the garden hollyhock. There are many different varieties of Chinese Hibiscus--with flower colors ranging from white, clear yellow, peach, orange, pink, and vivid red.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Indoors: direct sunlight (for example, in a southern window) is preferable. Outdoors (in summer only): half-day direct sunlight to full-day direct sunlight.

WATERING: In all seasons, take care to keep your plant's soil evenly moist. Dry soil almost always results in leaf yellowing and leaf drop. When you water, don't scrimp: at least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes. The plant should not stand in saucer water for more than thirty minutes.  

FEEDING: During flowering, use a high-phosphorus (high middle number) fertilizer applied at half the concentration and frequency listed in the product directions.

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS: Check periodically for whiteflies, spider mites, and scale insects. All these pests can be controlled with careful insecticide applications. Ask a Chalet horticulturist for specific product recommendations.