Confederate Rose, Cotton Rose, Tree Hibiscus
hibiscus mutabilis
Also known as: ["Cotton Rose","Confederate Rose","Tree Hibiscus"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its large, showy flowers that change color throughout the day, from white or pink in the morning to red or pink by evening.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Hibiscus |
| Botanical Name: | Hibiscus mutabilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate climates, large container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus mix or loam-based potting soil works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, every 7–10 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic to neutral potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 20°F (-6°C) but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize after pruning; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid, and partial shade conditions.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back to just above a healthy bud or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems to improve flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose right pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged exposure can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants indoors; protect from frost with covers or cloches.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute as directed; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHibiscus mutabilis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHibiscus mutabilis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHibiscus mutabilis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has not been reported to cause significant adverse effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Hibiscus mutabilis?
A: It can be propagated by stem cuttings or by planting seeds in spring.
Q: Why are the leaves on my Hibiscus mutabilis turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.
Q: Does Hibiscus mutabilis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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