Hibiscus produces some of the most beautiful flowers in the world. The Hibiscus is known for its showy, large, and colorful constant blooms. When we see their flowers, their shape and colors take us to a warm island in the Pacific or the Caribbean. But the reality is that, although tropical Hibiscus are well-known worldwide, there are hardy Hibiscus plants that are as spectacular as their tropical counterparts.
TROPICAL HIBISCUS
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
The best-known Hibiscus plants are tropical, these are perennial plants that bloom all year long. They grow in the warmer U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 9 through 11. Outdoors, can die after just one freeze, so they need to be protected from the cold indoors in a warm room that provides natural light.
Tropical Hibiscus is available in single or double blooms in colors that include red, salmon, white, peach, orange, or yellow. But there are many hybrid varieties that combine their traditional colors and shapes to create new fantastic flowers. Tropical hibiscus blooms all year round, but each bloom usually lasts only a day or two. Tropical hibiscus leaves are dark green and glossy,
HARDY HIBISCUS
Hibiscus spp.
Hardy hibiscus is a non-tropical plant that tolerates cold winters in USDA plant hardiness zone 5 through 8, depending on the species. Despite belonging to the same genus – tropical and hardy - other differences between these hibiscus varieties exist, such as plant types, blooms, leaves, and care needs.
Hardy hibiscus flowers are usually larger, and thicker and are often found in colors of purple, white, pink, or red. There are also many hybrid varieties that produce a large array of flower colors. The leaves of the hardy Hibiscus are medium green and heart-shaped.