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Hibiscus plants: tropical and hardy. Tropical Hibiscus, thriving in zones 9-11, boast year-round blooms in vibrant colors but require protection from frost. On the other hand, hardy Hibiscus, suited for zones 5-8, endure winters through dormancy
Hibiscus is renowned for its showy array of abundant and beautiful blooms. With vibrant colors and striking shapes, hibiscus flowers transport the mind to sun-drenched islands of the Pacific or the Caribbean. Yet, beyond the tropics, where hibiscus reigns supreme, there exists a resilient cousin — hardy Hibiscus — equally spectacular in their display of blooms they survive winter's freeze through dormancy, returning bigger and better each summer.
TROPICAL HIBISCUS
(Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Most widely known are the tropical hibiscus, perennial darlings that grace gardens year-round in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11. Despite their perennial nature, these delicate beauties will succumb to a frost, requiring shelter in colder climates. Find your own hardiness zone through an online search using your ZIP code and the term "hardiness zone."
Tropical hibiscus dazzle in an assortment of single or double blooms that cover the plant, boasting shades of red, salmon, white, peach, orange, or yellow. Hybrid varieties further push the boundaries of creativity, blending these classic tones in multicolored magic. While each bloom lasts a mere day or two, there is always a new flourish coming. Adorned with glossy, dark green leaves, the tropical hibiscus exudes an air of exotic elegance.
HARDY HIBISCUS
(Hibiscus spp.)
Contrasting the tender nature of their tropical cousins, hardy hibiscus braves the cold, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8. In the face of harsh winters, these plants retreat into dormancy, reemerging as warmth returns in June. Within weeks, they transform from mere shoots to towering stalks, varying in height from a modest three feet to an impressive six feet, depending on the variety.
Hardy hibiscus flowers, generally surpassing the size of their tropical kin, can be larger than dinner plates. Their blossoms, in hues of purple, white, pink, or red, captivate with their amazing numbers that come and go daily. Heart- or hand-shaped medium green to reddish leaves provide a vibrant backdrop to the abundant blooms. Unlike its tropical cousin hardy hibiscus will not do well in tropical zones as this plant needs winter. If planted in tropical zones it will last for a season then start to wind down.