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Hibiscus rosa-sinensis - How to Care for Hibiscus

The tender Hibiscus for indoors

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis | Chinese Hibiscus | Hawaiian Hibiscus | Rose of China. Generally found in tropical areas of Asia.

There are several distinct types of Hibiscus - some can be grown indoors in colder areas - some require tropical conditions. The main Hibiscus for growing as an indoor plant is Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and its many hybrid forms. It is of course, from tropical climates - as with the vast majority of plants we grow indoors. Plants which are grown in gardens in non-tropical areas are not normally suited as house plants. Example being Hibiscus syriacus types. Garden shrubs NOT indoor plants.

Indoor Hibiscus could normally be described by its huge red flower with protruding anther colorfully contrasted with the yellow pollen stamens - resembling a bottle brush. Now - thanks to the hybridists we have gaudy double flowered types and single flowers of colours ranging from white through to deepest crimson scarlet.

The Plant: The Hibiscus is an evergreen shrub with glossy green foliage and flowers which may be red, orange, pink, white or yellow.

 The flowers do not last long, but there tends to be a succession of them over the flowering period. Flowers may be single or double and have a protruding central stamen.

The flowers of a well-grown indoor Hibiscus can be 5in across - but 4in is the norm. The brightly colored flowers are set off well against the dark green glossy foliage - other than with the variegated form!



Care of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis - Indoors

Its needs: Good light is required to prolong flowering period, but avoid direct sun which causes leaf scorch. Normal humidity and room temperature. Do not allow temperature to drop below 13 C (55 F). There is a mistaken belief that all things from the tropic are sun-worshippers. Dappled shade is normally their requirement in such areas.

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis - orangeCare: Water and feed regularly throughout growing period, but reduce watering in winter. Mist leaves occasionally in hot weather. Deadhead regularly. Over feeding or watering can cause leaf bud drop.

Do not move or turn the plant once the flower buds have formed as this may cause them to drop. They hats disturbance at this time, so choose your position for growing carefully.

Trim back long shoots after flowering or in early spring. Re-pot in spring. The Hibiscus can be stood outside in a sheltered spot in summer but avoid strong sun.

Good for: Hibiscus make good showy plants with cheerful, exotic-looking blooms. Easy to maintain. 

Problems with Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Flower and flower bud drop. Can be a problem with a change in watering regime, too much feed and in particular, the plant being turned or relocated.

Can suffer from scale insects, mealybugs whitefly and aphids. Careful and regular inspection of your prized plant will avert an infestation. Sooty mould deposit on the leaves may be the first sign you have of an insect infestation.

Propagation of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Semi-ripe cutting mid-summer is the easiest way. But the cuttings will need to be around 6in long so large propagator or a few placed around the edge of a pot and then covered with clear plastic bag.

Guide to Propagating Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Using Semi-Ripe Cuttings

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, commonly known as Chinese hibiscus or China rose, is a tropical plant that produces stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers. One effective method of propagating this plant is through semi-ripe cuttings.

Semi-Ripe Cuttings

Semi-ripe cuttings are taken from the current season's growth once it has started to firm up. The base of the cutting should be hard while the tip is still soft.

Best Time to Take Cuttings

The best time to take semi-ripe cuttings is late summer to early autumn.

Necessary Tools

You'll need a sharp, sterilized pruning knife or scissors, rooting hormone powder, and pots with a well-draining potting mix.

Steps for Success

  1. Cutting: Select a healthy branch and cut a 4-6 inch section. Ensure the cutting has at least one node (where leaves attach to the stem). The cut should be made just below a node.
  2. Preparation: Remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder.
  3. Planting: Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Water thoroughly.
  4. Care: Place the pot in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Keep the potting mix moist but not waterlogged.
Ideal Conditions
  • Temperature: Hibiscus cuttings root best at temperatures between 70-75°F (21-24°C).
  • Humidity: A plastic bag can be placed over the pot to maintain high humidity.
  • Soil: A well-draining potting mix is essential to prevent rot.
  • Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal.
Caring for Young Plants Once your cuttings have rooted and new growth appears, they can be potted up individually.
  • Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil becomes dry.
  • Feeding: Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season following the product instructions.
  • Pruning: Regular pruning encourages bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of young plants to encourage branching.
Preventing Diseases and Promoting Healthy Growth

Monitor your young plants regularly for signs of disease or pests. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can be washed off with water or treated with an appropriate insecticide.

By following these steps, you can successfully propagate and grow your own Hibiscus rosa-sinensis plants, adding a touch of tropical beauty to your home or garden.


 

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