How to Grow a Perennial Hibiscus

Hibiscus produce showy, colorful flowers.

Plants in the Hibiscus genus are known for producing giant showy blossoms in an array of colors during summer. This includes the tender tropical hibiscus shrubs grown as annuals, deciduous hibiscus such as the rose of Sharon, and perennial hibiscus that return year after year with proper care. Perennial hibiscus plants range in height from 2 to more than 8 feet each growing season, with an equal-sized spread. Choose a perennial hibiscus variety suited for your location for best results.

Things You'll Need

• Organic matter
• Shovel
• Hoe
• Rake
• Mulch
• Hand shears

Instructions

1. Choose a planting site in full sun with wind protection (for tall varieties) and well-draining soil. Wait until the last chance of frost has passed and the soil warms up in the spring to plant perennial hibiscus.

2. Remove any plant life in the location and break the soil up several inches deep. Rake the area level and then add at least 2 inches of organic matter, such as compost, rotted leaves, aged manure or peat moss. This enriches the soil, which is a good idea when growing long-term plants like the perennial hibiscus.

3. Dampen the soil first and then sow seeds at the depth and spacing suggested on the packet. Dig planting holes the same depth of the containers holding any perennial hibiscus transplants, and then drench them with water to settle in place. Allow plenty of room in all directions around the plant for the mature size expected.

4. Keep perennial hibiscus seeds moist until seedlings appear in a week or more. Water the hibiscus regularly throughout the growing season for ultimate root development that establishes the plants.

5. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the hibiscus to prevent weeds from growing. Extend the mulch out a few feet to a width equal to the plant's canopy.

6. Prune faded hibiscus blooms to promote additional flowers. Another way to force the plant to bloom again is to trim the plant back by one-third following flowering.

7. Allow the perennial hibiscus to die back naturally in the winter and then cut the plant down to the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• Water established perennial hibiscus deeply but only during long dry periods in the second or third season after planting.

• Divide overgrown perennial hibiscus plants in the spring because they typically do not survive fall division.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer as directed or add another thick layer of organic matter a few times during the growing season, starting in the spring of the second season.

• Some types of perennial hibiscus will produce seedlings in your garden.

References

• University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service: Hibiscus
• Clemson Cooperative Extension; Hibiscus; Karen Russ; December 2004