Meet the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, a tropical beauty that's more than just a pretty face. Known by many names such as the China rose, Hawaiian hibiscus, and even the shoe flower, this plant is a showstopper with its vibrant flowers and lush, verdant leaves.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Partial To Full Sun
Can handle a mix of direct and bright light throughout the day.
High Water Needs
Requires frequent watering to maintain moist soil but doesn't tolerate standing water. Needs regular attention and good drainage. Best suited for dedicated indoor gardeners or outdoor spaces with intensive care.
Adaptable to Sand and Silt Loam
Grows well in sand and silt loam soils, adapting to these soil conditions. Needs frequent watering. Requires good soil drainage.
Moderately Adaptable Soil pH
Adapts well to acidic (pH < 6.5) and neutral (pH 6.5-7.5) soil conditions.
Safe For Humans
No known toxic effects or skin irritation risks.
Safe for All Animals
No known safety risks to pets or livestock.
57%
Adaptability Score
100%
Safety Score
About Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Standing tall at 4 to 10 feet, and spreading out to a width of 5 to 8 feet, the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a woody plant that's hard to miss. Its leaves are a lush green, providing a perfect backdrop for the star of the show - the flowers. These blooms come in a variety of colors, from canary yellow to blush pink, ruby red, and even pearl white, adding a pop of color to any landscape.
Did you know that the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is also known as the 'shoe flower' because in some cultures, the flowers are used to polish shoes? Now that's a plant that's both beautiful and practical!
Also known as
China rose
China-rose
Chinese hibiscus
Chinese roos
Common Red
Double rose-hibiscus
Hawaiian hibiscus
Hawiian hibiscus
Hibiscus
Hibiscus 'Lipstick'
Hibiscus rose-of-China
Kiinaruusu
Rose-of-China
Shoe flower
Shoe-back Plant
Shoe-black plant
Shoebackplant
Shoeblackplant
Shoeflower
Tropical Hibiscus
Չինական Վարդ
ဇဗ၊ ပ္ကဴ
Edibility
While the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is primarily ornamental, its flowers are indeed edible. They can be used to add a colorful and exotic touch to salads and desserts.
Our design recommendations
The Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a versatile plant that can be used as a privacy hedge due to its dense foliage. Its vibrant flowers also make it a great feature plant, adding a tropical touch to any garden. This plant is perfect for planters and native plant areas. It can also thrive as an interior plant, bringing a touch of the tropics indoors.