Bladder Hibiscus, Bladder Ketmia, Bladder Mallow, Blowball, Flower-of-an-hour, Flower-of-the-hour, Jew's Mallow, Porcelain Flower, Venus' Trumpet
hibiscus trionum
Also known as: ["Bladder Hibiscus","Bladder Ketmia","Bladder Mallow","Blowball","Flower-of-an-hour","Flower-of-the-hour","Jew's Mallow","Porcelain Flower","Venus' Trumpet"]
Overview
A short-lived annual plant with showy, papery white or yellow flowers that open in the morning and close by evening. It is known for its rapid growth and self-seeding habit.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Hibiscus |
| Botanical Name: | Hibiscus trionum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun exposure
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; place near south-facing window indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in heat; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid overfertilizing; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
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: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or weak stems; encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency 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, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; risk of frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to cyanogenic glycosides found in Hibiscus trionum seeds. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Hibiscus trionum can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHibiscus trionum seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally mild but can cause gastrointestinal distress and mild systemic effects in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hibiscus trionum toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How long do the flowers of Hibiscus trionum last?
A: The flowers typically last for only one day, opening in the morning and closing by evening.
Q: Does Hibiscus trionum require much care?
A: No, it is a very low-maintenance plant that thrives in poor soil and requires minimal watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
