Coastal Hibiscus, Sea Hibiscus, Cottonwood Hibiscus
hibiscus tiliaceus
Also known as: ["Cottonwood Hibiscus","Sea Hibiscus","Hibiscus tiliaceus"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to coastal regions, known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers that turn reddish-purple as they age.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Hibiscus |
| Botanical Name: | Hibiscus tiliaceus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, near water bodies, or as a specimen tree in tropical landscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can tolerate sandy or loamy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; protect from strong winds to prevent leaf damage.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain humidity in dry, hot conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, remove crossing branches, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose right pot size, prepare fresh soil, trim roots if needed, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
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, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in cold; wilting, leaf scorch, or flower drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to root damage or death in frost.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move indoors in cold weather; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use balanced fertilizer, dilute properly, apply to moist soil, avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHibiscus tiliaceus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHibiscus tiliaceus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would pose a risk to canine health when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHibiscus tiliaceus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Hibiscus tiliaceus be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering during hot, dry periods.
Q: Does Hibiscus tiliaceus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Hibiscus tiliaceus suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of salt spray and coastal conditions, making it ideal for seaside plantings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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