HIBISCUS ROSA SINENSIS

Hibiscus, Chinese Rose’

FAMILY: Hibiscus

USES: Tropical effect through its flowers which occur over an extended period. Does well as a shrub, hedge, foundation plant, container plant, espalier, in courtyards and as a screen.

SIZE: Grows to 3m tall with a 2.5m spread at a rate of 30 – 50 cm p/a.

LOCATION: Full sun to light partial shade. Does well with some protection from direct sea wind or hot, dry desert wind which may cause leaf burn.

SOIL: Best in an organically enriched fertile soil with a pH 6.1 – 7.8, mildly acidic to mildly alkaline. Will show leaf chlorosis if soil is too alkaline or saline.

FERTILISER: Apply a slow release 14:14:14 NPK every 3-4 months and possibly supplement with Fe chelate and seaweed as a soil drench as required.

WATER: Keep soil moist. Not drought tolerant. Does not accept over irrigation or waterlogging.