Tricks to harboring hibiscus inside and out
Q. What is the difference between a tropical and a hardy hibiscus?
A. If you meander garden centers in our area, you are bound to come across a variety of hibiscus. It's important to understand the difference between the tropical and the hardy hibiscus, both of which look beautiful in the summer garden.
Let's start with the tropical hibiscus. The exotic-looking tropical hibiscus loves warm temperatures and rich soil. Their leaves are typically dark green and glossy. Because it is tropical, it will flourish in your Midwestern summer garden but must be brought indoors during the winter. They prefer to grow in a sunny location with at least four to five hours of sunlight. The bright, exotic-looking flowers are 3 to 5 inches across and typically bloom for about a day, so don't worry because when one bloom falls another flourishes.
If you're looking for a perennial hibiscus that can survive Zone 5 winters then the hardy hibiscus is for you. This is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit. Many hardy hibiscus grow up to 4 feet tall, about 2 feet across and can have flowers that are 6 to 10 inches across in diameter. Their leaves are medium green and generally, though not always, heart-shaped. Be sure to plant your hardy hibiscus in a soil that is a rich combination of organic matter and humus. Hardy hibiscus need to be in an area that drains well. Be sure not to let your hibiscus dry out but be careful not to overwater it.
Hardy hibiscus also love the sun but can tolerate some minor shade. You may also find that your hardy hibiscus will bring both butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. Some common hardy hibiscus often found in our area include Kopper King, Fireball, Disco Belle and Plum Crazy.
Don't be alarmed if your hardy hibiscus is slow to show itself each spring. Many hardy hibiscus die back to the ground and reappear the following spring as new growth shoots forth from the soil. The hardy hibiscus waits for the ground temperature to warm up before sprouting its first shoots of the season.
If you love the idea of adding a bit of tropical looking flare to your garden that will come back year after year, you're encouraged to invest in a hardy hibiscus or two. They are sure to bring you joy as their large blooms fill your garden with a bit of bright color in the summer months.
- Wendy Reiner
• Provided by Master Gardeners through the Master Gardener Answer Desk, Friendship Park Conservatory, Des Plaines, and University of Illinois Extension, North Cook Branch Office, Arlington Heights. Call (847) 298-3502 Monday, Wednesday and Saturday or (847) 201-4176, ext. 14, on Fridays.