Scarlet Hibiscus
hibiscus coccineus
Also known as: ["Texas Star Hibiscus","Scarlet Rose Mallow"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial known for its large, brilliant red flowers and maple-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Hibiscus |
| Botanical Name: | Hibiscus coccineus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- 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 otherwise
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or loamy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be cut back by one-third to one-half of its height.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; rotate plant for even growth; avoid deep shade for best blooms.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter; ensure good drainage.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers hot summers; hardy in USDA zones 5–9.
Protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season, monthly in spring and fall
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning roots; fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup; apply evenly around the root zone.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer.
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 the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), humid environment with bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
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 issues.
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
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or leaf scorch in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stems may die back in hard freezes; roots can be damaged if not mulched or protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; cover with frost cloth in predicted freezes; plant in a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may decrease; growth can slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; 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 coccineus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHibiscus coccineus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHibiscus coccineus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is often used ornamentally and has no known adverse effects when handled or grown in typical garden settings.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Hibiscus coccineus grow?
A: It can grow up to 8 feet tall in ideal conditions.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: It is best grown in the ground due to its height and spread, but can be attempted in very large containers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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