Coastal Woodmallow, Sea Hibiscus, Native Lime
hibiscus tilliaceus
Also known as: ["Coastal Woodmallow","Sea Hibiscus","Native Lime","Hibiscus tiliaceus"]
Overview
A tropical tree or shrub native to coastal regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, known for its distinctive yellow flowers that turn orange-red and heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Hibiscus |
| Botanical Name: | Hibiscus tilliaceus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal areas or open garden spaces with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with added compost).
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; can be pruned back by one-third to encourage new growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; 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
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; place outdoors in summer for optimal blooming.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burn; fertilize after watering to prevent root shock; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood); can also be grown from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and shaping cuts to maintain form and health.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased wood, promote flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased wood first, make clean cuts, avoid over-pruning, clean up 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 growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, trim roots if crowded, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches; allow excess water to drain freely; water early in the morning 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in leaves, bud drop, stunted growth, wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; prolonged cold can cause dieback or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, increased water demand due to evaporation.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, avoid winter feeding, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHibiscus tilliaceus is not considered toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been reported in felines exposed to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHibiscus tilliaceus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHibiscus tilliaceus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in some cultures for various purposes without reported toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hibiscus tilliaceus suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly adapted to coastal environments and tolerates salt spray and sandy soils.
Q: How often should Hibiscus tilliaceus be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Hibiscus tilliaceus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and habitat value.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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